The Anambra State AIDS Control Agency (ANSACA) has completed the recruitment of personnel for the forthcoming Nationwide Integrated Biological and Behavioural Surveillance Survey (IBBSS), as preparations intensify for the national public health exercise.
The recruitment exercise was conducted in collaboration with the National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA), the Federal Ministry of Health and the West Africa Centre for Public Health and Development.
The two-day exercise ended on July 14 at the ANSACA headquarters in Awka. Anambra is among 12 states selected to participate in the nationwide survey.
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The Integrated Biological and Behavioural Surveillance Survey is designed to generate biological and behavioural data that will support evidence-based policymaking, strengthen HIV prevention and treatment programmes and improve healthcare planning across Nigeria.
Speaking at the conclusion of the recruitment exercise, ANSACA Executive Director and Project Manager, Dr Nkem Okeke, described the selection process as transparent and commended partner organisations for supporting the implementation of the survey.
He said the exercise would provide current data needed to strengthen Nigeria’s response to HIV, particularly among populations disproportionately affected by the epidemic.
“The survey will generate up-to-date evidence that will guide interventions, improve programme implementation and support efforts to reduce the burden of HIV across the country,” Okeke said.
He also acknowledged the support of Anambra State Governor Chukwuma Soludo, noting that the state’s investments in healthcare have enhanced its capacity to attract major public health initiatives and partnerships.
According to him, ongoing health sector reforms have improved the state’s readiness to implement strategic programmes aimed at improving health outcomes.
Okeke described the completion of the recruitment exercise as a major milestone in preparations for the survey and expressed confidence that the selected personnel would ensure its successful implementation in the state.
The survey is expected to provide critical data to guide Nigeria’s HIV prevention, treatment and care programmes while supporting future public health interventions nationwide.
