The Director General of the Abia State Agency for the Control of AIDS (ABSACA), Dr. Uloaku Emma Ukaegbu, has dismissed reports suggesting high HIV prevalence in parts of Abia State, stating that the data making rounds is outdated and no longer reflective of the current reality.
Speaking to journalists in Umuahia, Dr. Ukaegbu clarified that the local government areas of Ukwa East, Ikwuano, and Obingwa—recently mentioned in some reports as areas with high HIV cases—were flagged based on a survey conducted as far back as 2018.
“We are now in 2025, and the situation has changed significantly,” she stated. “The figures cited are not current, and we have made huge progress in addressing the health challenges since then.”
She attributed the progress to the proactive leadership of Governor Alex Chioma Otti, whom she described as “ever supportive and health-friendly.” According to her, the administration has upgraded healthcare infrastructure across the state, strengthened Primary Health Care centers, and ensured access to critical interventions in previously underserved areas.
“As part of our efforts to curb the spread of HIV, these previously affected LGAs have been prioritized in the distribution of intervention materials and programs,” Dr. Ukaegbu added.
Looking ahead, she announced that a new, comprehensive health survey is underway and will provide up-to-date statistics to guide future interventions.
Dr. Ukaegbu expressed confidence in Abia State’s health trajectory, declaring, “With our consistent efforts and investments, Abia is on track to become one of the best medical cities in Nigeria.”
