The Anambra State House of Assembly has passed a landmark bill aimed at prohibiting all forms of discrimination against persons living with HIV and those affected by AIDS in the state.
The legislation also guarantees access to care, support, and protection for these individuals, marking a significant step forward in promoting human rights and inclusive healthcare in the state.
The bill, which scaled through the third reading during the plenary, was passed after detailed scrutiny and deliberations by the House Committee on Health, chaired by Mr Tony Moubike.
The session was presided over by the Speaker of the House, Sir Somtochukwu Udeze, who commended the lawmakers for their dedication and thorough consideration of the bill.
The House resolved into a Committee of the Whole, where members reviewed, amended, and made final recommendations before reverting to plenary for the formal passage.
Speaking on the floor of the House, the sponsor of the bill and Member representing Ogbaru Constituency 1, Mr. Noble Igwe stated that the legislation was motivated by the urgent need to eliminate stigma and safeguard the rights and dignity of people living with and affected by HIV/AIDS in Anambra State.
“This law is intended to eliminate all forms of discrimination based on HIV status. It ensures that individuals can continue to live and work under normal conditions for as long as they are medically fit, and it creates a supportive environment for them to thrive,” Igwe said.
He further emphasized that the law aligns with the fundamental human rights enshrined in Chapter 4 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), promoting equality and a balanced societal responsibility.
In his remarks, Speaker Udeze described the passage of the bill as a “landmark development” that will have a lasting impact on the people of Anambra. He lauded the Committee on Health and all members of the Assembly for their commitment to the welfare of residents.
The new law is scheduled to take effect on July 3, 2025.