In 2025, Hepatitis B and C cases in Nigeria reached a total of 12,060, according to the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare. Out of 210,947 individuals screened, 129,602 were tested for HBV, while 81,345 underwent HCV screening. Furthermore, this data shows the urgent need for increased awareness, timely diagnosis, and treatment.
HBV and HCV Positivity Rates Across the Country
The Ministry’s report revealed that 9,066 people tested positive for HBV. Among them, only 179 (25%) started treatment, although approximately 906 individuals required care based on standard guidelines. Viral hepatitis remains a major health challenge, causing liver inflammation and, in severe cases, life-threatening complications.
According to the World Health Organisation, viral hepatitis is the second leading infectious killer globally, causing an estimated 1.3 million deaths per year, similar to tuberculosis.
State-by-State Breakdown of Hepatitis B and C Cases
- Adamawa: 298 of 2,633 HBV tests were positive (11.3%); 74 of 1,941 HCV tests were reactive.
- Delta: 14 of 1,049 HBV tests (1.3%) and 2 of 781 HCV tests were positive. However, treatment coverage remains low.
- Jigawa: 24 of 380 HBV tests (6.3%) and 22 of 321 HCV tests were positive.
- Kano: 2,231 of 28,461 HBV tests (7.8%); 66 of 12,730 HCV tests were reactive.
- Katsina: 28 of 149 HBV tests (18.8%) were positive.
- Kebbi: 8 of 193 HBV tests (4.1%) were positive; no HCV tests recorded.
- Kwara: 54 of 3,627 HBV tests (1.5%) positive; 12 HCV tests conducted.
- Lagos: 2,042 of 41,982 HBV tests (4.9%) and 460 of 27,962 HCV tests were positive. Additionally, some patients began treatment.
- Nasarawa: 3,348 of 38,035 HBV tests (8.8%) and 2,097 of 37,227 HCV tests positive.
- Niger: 668 of 3,486 HBV tests (19.2%) and 242 of 2,523 HCV tests were reactive.
- Taraba: 41 of 223 HBV tests (18.4%) and 29 of 223 HCV tests were positive.
- Zamfara: 310 of 9,384 HBV tests (3.3%) and 2 of 104 HCV tests were positive.
Urgent Call for Hepatitis Screening and Treatment
The rising Hepatitis B and C cases in Nigeria 2025 highlight the need for immediate action. Therefore, expanding screening programs, improving vaccination coverage, and ensuring timely treatment are critical to controlling the spread of these viruses. Furthermore, strengthening public awareness campaigns and healthcare infrastructure will save lives and reduce long-term health complications.
