The United States Agency for International Development (USAID), an independent agency of the United States, has announced the provision of  $136.5m (N52 billion) for Nigeria to tackle HIV/AIDS, human trafficking, and provide access to potable water.

In a statement on Thursday, the agency said the grant comes under a bilateral development objectives assistance agreement (DOAG) with the United States signed in 2015.

USAID noted that it has provided Nigeria with $1.94 billion (N743 billion) in assistance under the seven-year DOAG.

“Most of the assistance, nearly $133.5 million, will go to HIV/AIDS control under several new and existing awards that focus on prevention and treatment in some of the most vulnerable areas of the country,” the statement read.

“Another $3 million boosts to combat trafficking in persons, mitigate conflict, peace, and counter violent extremism, and $219,566 will expand USAID’s efforts to increase access to potable water and reduce water borne diseases in Nigeria.”

Anne Patterson, USAID new mission director said, “As the most populous country in Africa with the largest economy, Nigeria has tremendous potential and influence over the future of the continent.

“With this additional funding, the United States continues to demonstrate its commitment to supporting development programs that will benefit the Nigerian people.”

USAID said in 2020, it tested 2.4 million Nigerians for HIV and placed 89 percent of the 119,000 who tested positive on antiretroviral therapy, bringing the total number of Nigerians on USAID-supported HIV/AIDS treatment to 377,500.

Patterson added that the United States was committed to helping Nigeria overcome HIV/AIDS through partnership with government, civil society, and communities.

By Wasilat Azeez