Lagos State now has the highest number of new HIV infections in Nigeria. This is according to the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare’s State of the Health of the Nation Report 2025, released in 2026, and reported by Punch Newspaper. The report shows that Nigeria recorded 102,025 new HIV infections in 2025. Lagos alone accounted for 10,430 of these cases, the highest figure among all states.
How Other States Compare
Rivers State followed with 6,287 new infections. Kano recorded 6,106 cases, Akwa Ibom had 5,413, Taraba reported 4,854, and Benue recorded 4,804.
Health experts point to a few possible reasons behind Lagos’ lead in new HIV infections. The state’s large population, high urban mobility, and expanded HIV testing services may all contribute to the higher reported figures.
Experts stress that these numbers should not fuel stigma. Instead, they should drive stronger prevention efforts, encourage regular testing, and improve access to treatment. Lagos state has also been taking steps to make HIV services more inclusive, particularly for vulnerable groups. Read our report on Lagos deepens inclusive HIV response for persons with disabilities to learn more about these efforts.
The rise in new HIV infections is a reminder that HIV remains a serious public health challenge in Nigeria. Sustained awareness, early diagnosis, and consistent treatment adherence remain key to reducing infection rates nationwide.
Source: Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare’s State of the Health of the Nation Report 2025, as reported by Punch Newspapers
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