Anambra fifth in HIV transmission in Nigeria – Agency

According to the Anambra State Aids Control Agency, the state has the fifth-highest rate of HIV transmission among people aged 15 to 49 in all of Nigeria.

This was revealed by the agency's Executive Director, Mr. Johnbosco Ementa, on Thursday during a two-day stakeholders meeting that the organization had organized in Awka.

According to Ementa, the forum was organized to allow different stakeholders to share ideas on how to scale up efforts to end HIV transmission in the state.

In order to address the issues facing the state in terms of HIV transmission, he emphasized that the gathering provided an opportunity for interaction, knowledge sharing, and highlighting such challenges.

He expressed regret for the circumstance and stated that the organization was working relentlessly with key players to reduce

He said, “It is unfortunate to note that Anambra is the fifth highest in Nigeria in terms of HIV transmission among people aged 15 to 49 years.
“The agency is working tirelessly to ensure its reduction or elimination by promoting behavioural change in both low and high population, increase awareness and sensitisation among the general population.

“We are are also working with targeted stakeholders, to mitigate the impact of HIV/AIDS in the state.
“Let me also inform you that plans are underway to domesticate the 2014 HIV Anti Stigma Bill in Anambra State.”
The state Commissioner for Health, Dr Afam Obidike, on his part, called for more efforts to reduce HIV transmission in the state.