Anambra State AIDS Control Agency (ANSACA) is set to play a leading role in Nigeria’s next phase of HIV prevention, as Anambra State is being considered as a pilot location for the country’s National HIV/AIDS Prevention Plan for 2026–2030.
The move follows a high-level visit by ANSACA’s newly appointed Executive Director, Nkem Okeke, to the Abuja headquarters of the National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA). He was received by James Anenih, Director of Community Prevention and Care Services, alongside Sam Anya of UNAIDS.
The visit formally introduced Okeke in his new role. It focused on strengthening coordination between state and federal HIV response systems, with an emphasis on aligning Anambra’s strategy with national priorities.
Okeke outlined plans to expand HIV awareness, testing and prevention services across all local government areas in the state, with particular focus on vulnerable and high-risk populations. He highlighted the importance of data-driven interventions and community-led approaches in reducing new infections and accelerating progress towards epidemic control.
NACA officials welcomed the state’s approach, describing it as consistent with Nigeria’s evolving HIV prevention framework. Anenih, representing the agency’s leadership, said Anambra’s strategy demonstrated “clarity” and strong alignment with national goals.
During the meeting, NACA presented the National HIV/AIDS Prevention Plan (2026–2030), which aims to scale up targeted prevention efforts and improve coordination across all levels of government. Anambra’s selection as a potential pilot state reflects what officials described as its preparedness and commitment to innovative programming.
UNAIDS reiterated the need for a multi-sector response, urging stronger collaboration among government agencies, civil society and development partners under a unified national strategy.
If confirmed, Anambra’s pilot status would position the state as a testing ground for implementing national HIV policies at the community level, with lessons expected to inform broader rollout across Nigeria.
The development signals a renewed push for coordinated and locally driven HIV prevention efforts in Africa’s most populous country.
