The Ebonyi State Agency for the Control of AIDS (EBOSACA) has broadened its community outreach efforts with a renewed HIV prevention campaign and free testing exercise at the Central Mosque in Abakaliki as a part of marking the 2025 world AIDS Day on December 1.
The sensitization, led by Prince Chibueze Andrew Iteshi, Executive Secretary of EBOSACA, brought health officials, human rights advocates, and community leaders together in a united push to curb HIV transmission across the state.
Prince Iteshi described the visit as an extension of last year’s successful engagement, which significantly improved antenatal attendance and HIV testing among women.
“Last year’s visit was very fruitful because it helped reduce the spread of HIV in our communities. We have returned to deepen our education efforts. With modern treatment, people living with HIV can live long, healthy, and productive lives. But prevention remains our strongest tool," he said.
He cautioned families against risky behaviours such as sharing unsterilized sharp objects and stressed the need for community-wide awareness, adding that elders, youth, men, and women all play critical roles in limiting the spread of the virus.
Prince Iteshi also announced the introduction of the Medication Assisted Therapy (MATS) program, a free treatment intervention for individuals battling opioid and hard‐drug addiction.
He said the initiative aims to restore productivity among affected youths and adults in the state.
“Many young people and adults who used drugs early in life are now unable to support their families or communities.
“With the MATS program, within nine months you will see remarkable transformation. This treatment is usually expensive, but thanks to Global Health Partners, it is now free for our people," he said.
He encouraged families to refer affected individuals for support while reminding community members that HIV testing at the outreach site was voluntary but essential for personal and family health.
Representatives of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) in Ebonyi State, under the coordinatorship of Mr. Christopher Okorie, commended the Muslim community for their warm reception.
Okorie, represented by a delegate, said the Commission has used the season each year since 2019 to promote rights awareness across the country, particularly for vulnerable groups.
“Many people living with HIV face stigma and mistreatment. The message from the government is clear: we are here to protect you,” he said. He added that engaging the community directly was a deliberate step toward strengthening trust and collaboration.
During the outreach, health officer John Nkwuda highlighted the connection between malaria and HIV, explaining that malaria weakens the immune system and increases vulnerability to infections.
“As we advised during our April visit, if you feel feverish, get tested first. Many conditions imitate malaria. Treating malaria when it is not malaria can worsen your situation. Testing protects your health and prevents misdiagnosis," he said.
Responding on behalf of the Muslim community, Usman Shuaib Adam, Secretary General of the Central Mosque, Abakaliki expressed gratitude for EBOSACA’s sustained engagement and affirmed the mosque’s commitment to supporting HIV awareness campaigns.
“I am very impressed with the work you are doing. Our records show that HIV prevalence is high in urban Abakaliki, so continued sensitization is very important," he said.
He added that the mosque, previously not active in HIV advocacy, is now fully involved in awareness activities, including preparations for World AIDS Day.
“Your presence here has enlightened our people. We can now confidently guide our community because the information we share comes directly from your expert sensitization," he added.
