Abia State has been identified as one of the top six states in Nigeria with the highest HIV/AIDS prevalence rates.
At a press briefing in Umuahia, Mrs. Uloaku Emma-Ukaegbu, Director-General of the Abia State Agency for the Control of AIDS (ABSACA), outlined the strategies in place to raise awareness, promote testing, and enhance prevention programs across the state.
She also emphasized the agency’s continued efforts to combat HIV/AIDS and reduce its prevalence in Abia.
To observe World AIDS Day on December 1, 2024, ABSACA has reaffirmed its dedication to eradicating HIV/AIDS in the state by 2030.
She mentioned that 38 treatment centers which are already operational in the state play a crucial role in providing essential support and treatment to those affected, helping to manage the HIV and improve the quality of life for patients in Abia.
She assured that individuals living with HIV would receive timely treatment and support, ensuring effective management of the virus and enhancing the quality of life for those affected.
Mrs. Emma-Ukaegbu referenced data from a 2018 survey showing Abia’s HIV prevalence rate at 2.1%, well above the national average of 1.4%. She highlighted that Ukwa East, Ikwuano, and Obingwa Local Government Areas have the highest rates in the state.
She stated, “The HIV prevalence rate in Abia is 2.1%, meaning that roughly two out of every 100 Abians are likely to be HIV positive. The survey, which focused on individuals aged 15 to 64, ranked Abia as the sixth most affected state in Nigeria.”
The Director-General also revealed that 47,688 people in the state are currently undergoing treatment, with women making up a larger portion of this figure.
She stressed that this concerning statistic underscores the urgent need for stronger public health initiatives, increased awareness, and more effective prevention programs.
She mentioned that efforts must be intensified in areas like education, testing, and treatment to halt the spread of HIV and provide greater support to affected communities in the state.
She highlighted that tackling this issue is essential for improving public health and mitigating the long-term effects of the virus.
In preparation for this year’s World AIDS Day, Mrs. Emma-Ukaegbu announced that awareness campaigns would be held at various churches in the state capital. The campaigns will feature informative talks on HIV/AIDS and provide onsite testing, allowing individuals to check their status.
She said that these efforts aim to raise awareness and encourage more people to take action toward understanding and managing their health in relation to HIV.
She stressed that HIV/AIDS is still incurable and underscored the importance of preventive measures, including abstinence, mutual fidelity between partners, and safe practices to prevent transmission.
”The most effective way to protect yourself is through abstinence or remaining faithful to one partner. Prevention continues to be our strongest defense against this virus,” she affirmed.
