By Ukpa Ewa
Workers in Anambra State on May 1, 2026, turned out in large numbers to benefit from free medical screening organised by the Anambra State AIDS Control Agency (ANSACA) as part of activities marking International Workers Day.
The exercise, held at Dr. Alex Ekwueme Square, featured free HIV testing, hepatitis screening, tuberculosis checks, blood sugar tests and mobile X-ray services. Health officials also distributed condoms, lubricants and HIV self testing kits, while educating workers on their proper use.
Addressing journalists, the Executive Director of ANSACA, Dr. Nkem Okeke, described the May Day gathering as a strategic opportunity for public health advocacy. He disclosed that over 2,800 test kits were made available, with provisions to supply more based on demand.
Okeke expressed concern over the state HIV prevalence rate, which stands at 2.4 percent higher than the national average of 2.1 percent placing Anambra among states with a significant burden in the South East. He stressed the need to intensify efforts to reduce HIV prevalence in the state, in line with the 2030 target of zero new infections.
According to him, the turnout and participation of workers reflected growing awareness and a decline in stigma, as many willingly presented themselves for testing without fear of the outcome.
He commended the support of the state government, noting that Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo has provided the necessary technical resources to strengthen the state HIV response. He further urged workers to prioritise routine health checks by visiting nearby health facilities.
Also speaking, a representative of the AIDS Healthcare Foundation of Nigeria, Mrs. Obiakalusi Charity, said the organisation partnered with the state to promote HIV prevention and reproductive health. She noted that free condoms and lubricants were distributed to help prevent sexually transmitted infections, including HIV, syphilis, gonorrhoea and hepatitis B and C.
She emphasised that the initiative focused on awareness and voluntary participation, encouraging workers to adopt preventive measures for healthier living.
Similarly, the Case Manager of Achieving Health Nigeria Initiative (AHNi), Nkwocha Levi, confirmed that workers responded well to the testing exercise, particularly in HIV and tuberculosis screening.
Some beneficiaries who spoke with the information officer commended the initiative.
A Laboratory Scientist, Mr. Emenike Hillary, described the programme as commendable, noting that it was the first time such an exercise was organised for workers during May Day celebrations.
Another participant, Mrs. Obiora Chizoba, expressed satisfaction after undergoing testing, stating that the exercise encouraged her to know her health status after a long time. She also noted improvements in governance and welfare under the current administration.
The event highlighted the importance of workplace health interventions, with stakeholders calling for sustained awareness campaigns and increased access to preventive healthcare services across the state.
Ukpa is of the Ministry of Information, Anambra State
