NACA Launches HIV Surveillance Study in Anambra to Boost Epidemic Control
Korede Abdullah 
AWKA, Nigeria – Nigeria’s HIV response has entered a new phase with the inauguration of a technical team to conduct a nationwide surveillance study in Anambra State, targeting high-risk populations and strengthening epidemic control efforts.
The initiative, led by the National Agency for the Control of AIDS, will implement the 2026 Integrated Biological and Behavioural Surveillance Study (IBBSS), with at least 1,200 individuals expected to be tested in the state.
Director-General Tope Ilori said the study would prioritise data-driven interventions, including expanded HIV testing, treatment access and viral suppression strategies.
The Executive Director of the Anambra State AIDS Control Agency, Nkem Okeke, noted that the exercise targets key populations such as sex workers and men who have sex with men, groups disproportionately affected by HIV.
He added that Anambra was selected alongside 11 other states due to its high prevalence rate.
The study will deploy advanced testing kits capable of confirming infections within two weeks—significantly faster than older methods.
Experts say the initiative is critical to achieving Nigeria’s 2030 HIV epidemic control targets through improved data accuracy and targeted interventions.
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