In a recent statement, Dr. Henry Ayuk, the Commissioner for Health in Cross River State, highlighted the alarming prevalence of HIV in communities located near the borders of Nigeria.
Dr. Ayuk made these remarks from his office, emphasizing the urgency of addressing this issue ahead of the World AIDS Day celebration.
He attributed the high HIV prevalence in Cross River State to the uncontrolled movement of citizens from neighbouring regions such as Cameroon, Akwa Ibom, and Benue.
Dr. Ayuk mentioned, “HIV data indicates that the epicentres of the virus are found in local communities adjacent to Cameroon, where there are unmonitored movements into Cross River State.
There are similar areas in neighbouring states, such as Obaliku LGA, situated next to Benue State, and other areas adjacent to Akwa Ibom State and other nearby states.”
He further added, “The prevalence of HIV in the state, which has reduced from 12% to 2%, is primarily concentrated in these borderline communities.”
Despite the considerable progress in meeting HIV expectations, Dr. Ayuk acknowledged that the state continues to witness daily deaths due to HIV. He stressed the ongoing need for extensive mass sensitization testing and community engagement, especially in light of the upcoming World AIDS Day with the theme “Community Leadership To End AIDS By 2030.”
Supporting Dr. Ayuk’s concerns, Dr. Etim Ayi, the Permanent Secretary of the State Primary Health Development Agency, urged the minimization of unregulated movements to prevent new HIV cases in the state. He emphasized the pivotal role of community involvement in addressing this pressing issue.
Additionally, Dr. Paul Odey, the Acting Chairman of the State Action Committee Against AIDS (SACA), emphasized the necessity of unified support from leaders, communities, faith-based organizations, and stakeholders to combat the spread of HIV.
This urgent call to action stresses the importance of collaborative efforts in curbing the prevalence of HIV in Nigeria’s borderline communities.
