By Obianuju Isima
As the world marks International Youth Day 2026 on August 12, the Executive Director of the Anambra State AIDS Control Agency (ANSACA), Dr. Nkem Okeke, has reaffirmed the Agency’s commitment to placing young people at the centre of the state’s HIV response and empowering them to take an active role in HIV prevention.
Dr. Okeke said this in a press release posted on the ANSACA Facebook page to commemorate the day. He said young people are critical partners in achieving Zero New HIV Infections by 2030, noting that their energy, creativity, choices and leadership are essential to building a healthier and more resilient Anambra State.
According to him, in line with the State Strategic Transformation and Sustainability Plan (SSTSP 2026–2028), ANSACA is strengthening youth-friendly HIV prevention, testing and counselling services, PrEP and PEP awareness, condom education, telehealth services, as well as HIV interventions in schools and tertiary institutions.
He said the agency is creating opportunities for greater youth participation through initiatives such as the HIV Awareness Brigade, while taking services closer to young people through campus outreaches, motor-park and community testing, moonlight testing, telehealth services and targeted awareness campaigns.
Dr. Okeke added that the establishment of the Tertiary Institutions HIV Action Committee is strengthening coordination of HIV prevention, awareness and related services across higher institutions, while encouraging greater student participation in the response.
He noted that these efforts complement the broader commitment of the Prof. Chukwuma Soludo-led administration to investing in young people through education, skills development, employment opportunities, digital innovation and improved healthcare.
Dr. Okeke expressed appreciation to Governor Soludo for creating an enabling environment for young people to thrive, stressing that a healthy, informed and empowered youth population is essential to the development of the state.
His message to young people was clear: “Know your HIV status. Stay informed. Protect yourself. Reject stigma and misinformation. Encourage your friends to make healthy choices.”
He stressed that young people should not be seen merely as beneficiaries of the HIV response but as partners and leaders in the effort to end HIV.
“Your voice, choices and actions matter. Together, we can achieve Zero New HIV Infections and build an AIDS-free Anambra,” she said.
Dr. Okeke encouraged parents, schools, tertiary institutions, workplaces, communities and other stakeholders to support young people with accurate information, youth-friendly services and safe environments free from stigma and discrimination.
Obianuju Isima is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation Anambra State
