By Obianuju Isima
The Anambra State AIDS Control Agency (ANSACA) has brought HIV, hepatitis and tuberculosis (TB) prevention, testing and other healthcare services closer to young people in Abacha, Idemili North Local Government Area (LGA), as part of efforts to promote early detection, prevention and healthier communities.
The outreach was held on Aug. 15, during the Abacha Youth Unity Hangout 2026, organised by the Abacha Youth Association at Abacha Amaka Hall, Olise Market, Abacha.
The youths received HIV sensitisation, testing and counselling, hepatitis and TB screening, blood pressure checks, as well as information on prevention, treatment and available care services.
The engagement encouraged the youths to make healthy choices, avoid drug abuse, criminality and other harmful behaviours, and pursue productive activities that would contribute positively to their future and community.
The traditional ruler of Abacha, HRH Igwe Nwabunwanne Godwin Odiegwu, Ezedioramma Oranyelueze Ikedim III, who witnessed the programme, commended the youths for embracing initiatives that promote their health and wellbeing.
The monarch urged young people to stay away from drug abuse, crime and other harmful behaviours, while encouraging residents to take advantage of the health services provided during the outreach.
Leading by example, Igwe Odiegwu voluntarily underwent the available screenings, demonstrating the importance of knowing one’s health status and making preventive healthcare a priority.
The President of the Abacha Youth Association, Solomon Nwabueze Onyiagha, expressed appreciation to ANSACA for responding to the association’s invitation and bringing essential health services directly to the community.
Onyiagha said the association would continue to support initiatives that promote the health, unity and productive engagement of young people in Abacha, while pledging further collaboration with government agencies and development partners.
The youths turned out in good numbers to access the services and voluntarily participate in HIV testing and other health screenings. Their participation reflected a growing willingness among young people to take an active role in protecting their health and making informed decisions.
The outreach highlighted the importance of bringing preventive health services directly to communities, particularly by creating opportunities for young people to access accurate information, undergo screening and seek appropriate care when necessary.
ANSACA reaffirmed its commitment to taking HIV prevention, testing, treatment and other integrated health services closer to communities while working with local partners to strengthen health awareness and prevention across Anambra State.
Obianuju Isima is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State
