Cross River Strengthens HIV Fight with NDLEA Partnership on Drug Abuse
Korede Abdullah 
CALABAR, Nigeria – Cross River State has intensified its public health response by partnering with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) to combat rising HIV infections and substance abuse.
Director General of the State Agency for the Control of AIDS (CR-SACA), Dr Charles Iwara, Tuesday said the collaboration aims to align efforts toward ending new HIV infections by 2030.
“The engagement forms part of ongoing efforts to strengthen inter-agency collaboration for a more impactful response,” Iwara said during a visit to the NDLEA State Command.
He emphasised the need for coordinated data sharing, laboratory support, and joint implementation strategies to improve outcomes.
NDLEA State Commander Anyeyi John described the partnership as timely, proposing the establishment of a rehabilitation centre to address drug dependency.
Public health experts also stressed the importance of targeting young people, warning of emerging risky behaviours such as syringe sharing among adolescents.
Both agencies agreed to expand joint awareness campaigns, training, and outreach programmes to protect vulnerable populations and strengthen community resilience.
About the Author
Oluwatobi Adu 
Edino Chubiyo Cornelius 
Oluwafunbi Bello 