Trends and demographic patterns of HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis uptake in Nigeria

This study examined the trends and demographic patterns of HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) uptake in Nigeria from 2020 to 2024 using secondary programme data extracted from the national HIV prevention and treatment information system of Birni Kebbi general hospital, Nigeria. A retrospective descriptive design was employed, with data disaggregated by marital status, risk group, age, and gender. Descriptive statistics and trend visualizations were used for analysis. Findings revealed a distinct expansion in PrEP uptake between 2020 and 2022, followed by a decline from 2023 to 2024 across all demographic categories. Uptake was overwhelmingly concentrated among married individuals and serodiscordant couples throughout the five-year period, reflecting strong integration of PrEP within partner testing and treatment-linked referral pathways. Conversely, unmarried persons, younger age groups, and sex workers were minimally represented, indicating significant prevention gaps. Gender analysis showed higher male uptake during the expansion phase and slightly greater female stability in subsequent years. Age distributions were dominated by individuals aged 30-49 and 50+. In conclusion, the findings demonstrate that PrEP delivery in Nigeria remains marriage-centric and treatment-linked, highlighting the need for broader risk-based and community-oriented PrEP strategies to optimize preventive impact.