Nigeria’s new HIV national data repository now receives de-identified patient data from health facilities nationwide
Nigeria now has a National Data Repository which is partnership between the Federal Ministry of health and Presidents Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR). The repository receives de-identified patient data from across health facilities providing HIV testing and treatment services across the country.
Nigeria’s health minister, Prof. Isaac Adewole while speaking at the official launch described data as the key element in providing effective healthcare service to Nigerians. The Minister commissioned the National Data Repository Center (NDR) and HIV PACE ECHO projects’ office.
The aim of the HIV PACE ECHO project is to support HIV epidemic control by leveraging on video conferencing technology to provide case-based clinical mentorship to health care providers rendering HIV care and treatment services in Nigeria especially those in primary health care centers (PHCs).
The initiative is aimed at monitoring Nigeria’s achievement towards meeting the UNAIDS 90-90-90 goals on HIV and AIDS.
Speaking during the commissioning, the Minister said that accurate data enables health care providers and policy makers plan strategically.
“Without data we will not be able to determine what progress we made, we can’t allocate resources appropriately”, the Minister said.
Adewole said accurate data provides clear vision to healthcare policy makers to adequately intervene where necessary.
The National Coordinator, National AIDS/STI Control Programme (NASCAP) Dr. Sunday Aboje commended US Center for Diseases Control (USCDC) for supporting the programme.
He appreciated the Hon. Minister of Health, Prof. Isaac F. Adewole for approving other logistics for the programme to take effect in full capacity, he assured that the programme would be sustained. The office is located in the Federal Ministry of Health, Phase III Federal Secretariat Complex.