ANSACA, AHNi Inaugurate State Key Population Advisory Committee on HIV Healthcare Services
By Uzo Ugwunze
The Anambra State AIDS Control Agency (ANSACA), in collaboration with Achieving Health Nigeria Initiative (AHNI), has inaugurated the State Key Population (KP) Advisory Committee to strengthen coordination and access to HIV prevention, treatment, care and harm-reduction services in the state.
The inauguration and community dialogue, held on September 15 at Vertex View Hotel, Nibo, brought together security agencies, health institutions, government representatives, community organisations and key population networks.
The committee will provide a structured platform for dialogue between the health sector, security agencies and key population communities, while addressing barriers to HIV services, strengthening referrals and improving coordination.
Speaking at the event, ANSACA Executive Director/Project Manager, Dr. Nkem Okeke, highlighted the efforts of Governor Prof. Chukwuma Charles Soludo, CFR, in strengthening Anambra’s HIV response through a progressive, evidence-driven and solution-oriented approach.
“This is not about promoting anyone’s lifestyle. It is about preventing HIV infections, keeping people on treatment, protecting public health and saving lives,” Okeke said.
He urged security agencies to understand the public health response, health institutions to recognise the security environment, and key population communities to understand their responsibilities.
“ANSACA will continue to provide the platform for these interests to work together. We cannot end AIDS by leaving populations most vulnerable to HIV behind,” he said.
Okeke charged committee members to uphold professionalism, confidentiality and mutual respect, reiterating that the state’s target remains Zero New HIV Infections by 2030.
The inauguration represents another step towards a more coordinated and effective HIV response in Anambra State.
