By Obianuju Isima
The Anambra State AIDS Control Agency (ANSACA) has called for stronger protection of girls against gender based violence (GBV), sexual abuse and exploitation, warning that these violations can increase their vulnerability to HIV infection and threaten their physical and emotional well-being.
The agency commended Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s administration for its efforts to strengthen the protection of women and children through legal safeguards, free education and child protection initiatives.
The Executive Director of ANSACA, Dr. Nkem Okeke, particularly applauded the state government’s directive to investigate and prosecute gender-based inheritance discrimination under the Anambra State Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Law, 2017, describing it as an important step towards safeguarding the rights and dignity of women and girls.
Dr. Okeke acknowledged the contributions of the wife of the Governor, Dr. Nonye Soludo, through the Healthy Living with Nonye Soludo Initiative, especially its advocacy against child abuse and support for justice, protection and rehabilitation for survivors.
He stressed that protecting girls from sexual violence must be an integral part of HIV prevention efforts, noting that sexual abuse can expose them to HIV, other sexually transmitted infections, unwanted pregnancies and psychological trauma.
“Protecting the girl child from sexual violence is also protecting her from HIV. We cannot achieve our HIV prevention goals without addressing the violence, discrimination and inequalities that place adolescent girls and young women at greater risk,” Dr. Okeke noted.
The ANSACA boss emphasised the need for survivors of sexual violence to receive prompt medical attention, including access to HIV post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP), which must be started as soon as possible and within 72 hours of potential exposure, adding that medical care should be complemented by appropriate counselling, psychosocial support and access to justice.
ANSACA reaffirmed its commitment to HIV prevention education, confidential testing, counselling and linkage to appropriate healthcare services, urging parents, teachers, community leaders, security agencies and relevant government institutions to strengthen child protection mechanisms, report abuse promptly and ensure that survivors receive care without discrimination or blame.
The agency called for closer collaboration among government ministries, healthcare providers, civil society organisations and community stakeholders to integrate HIV prevention into GBV response programmes, ensuring that vulnerable girls can access the protection and services they need.
Dr. Okeke reiterated that achieving an AIDS-free Anambra by 2030 requires more than access to HIV services. It also demands a safe and supportive environment where every girl can access education, understand her rights, make informed decisions about her health and grow free from violence and exploitation.
As the state joins the global observance of the International Day of the Girl Child, ANSACA urged all stakeholders to renew their commitment to protecting girls and securing a healthier, safer future for the next generation.
Protect the Girl Child. End Gender-Based Violence. Prevent HIV. Build an AIDS-Free Anambra.
Obianuju Isima is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State
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