The Enugu State Government has reiterated its support for a robust HIV/AIDS response, assuring that no resident will be denied essential healthcare services. This assurance came on Friday when the Commissioner for Health, Professor George Ugwu, received the executive members of the Network of People Living with HIV and AIDS in Nigeria (NEPWHAN), Enugu Chapter.
Professor Ugwu, speaking on behalf of Governor Peter Mbah's administration, emphasised that the health and well-being of residents is a top priority. He pledged that the government would continue to implement inclusive policies and evidence-based interventions to improve health outcomes across the state.
Health Sector Reforms and HIV Response
The commissioner highlighted ongoing reforms in the health sector, including the construction of Type-2 Primary Healthcare Centres in every ward. He noted that this initiative is aimed at expanding access to quality healthcare, bringing services closer to communities and ensuring that no one is left behind.
According to the commissioner, the government has also strengthened disease surveillance systems, invested in healthcare workforce development, and enhanced collaboration with development partners. These efforts are designed to improve HIV testing, treatment, prevention of mother-to-child transmission, and viral load monitoring across Enugu State.
Public Education and Stigma Reduction
The health commissioner further revealed that the government has intensified public health education and community engagement initiatives. These programmes are targeted at reducing new HIV infections and addressing the stigma and discrimination often faced by people living with the virus.
Professor Ugwu stressed the importance of tackling stigma as a critical component of the HIV response, adding that community awareness is key to encouraging more people to seek testing and treatment. He assured NEPWHAN of the ministry's continued support and called for stronger collaboration among government agencies, civil society organisations, development partners, and affected communities to accelerate progress.
NEPWHAN Seeks Deeper Partnership
Earlier, the State Coordinator of NEPWHAN, Lilian Agbo, called for deeper collaboration with the ministry in combating HIV and mitigating its impact on communities across Enugu State. She commended the ministry for its sustained efforts in improving access to HIV prevention, treatment, care, and support services for vulnerable populations and affected persons.
Mrs Agbo advocated for closer collaboration in advancing community-based interventions, reducing stigma and discrimination, and promoting public awareness on HIV prevention, treatment, and support services. She made a direct appeal to the government, saying, "We are here to appeal and ensure that people living with HIV continue to receive quality healthcare and social support."
A Shared Responsibility
The commissioner concluded by emphasising that collective action, mutual trust, and shared responsibility are essential for achieving healthier communities and improving the quality of life of people living with HIV. He reaffirmed the state government's unwavering commitment to the fight against HIV/AIDS, vowing that the administration would continue to work with all stakeholders to ensure sustainable progress.
The meeting underscored the importance of partnership between government and community-based organisations in addressing the challenges posed by HIV/AIDS. As Enugu State continues to expand its healthcare infrastructure and services, the involvement of groups like NEPWHAN remains vital to reaching the most affected populations and ensuring that no one is excluded from the promise of quality healthcare.
