The Anambra State AIDS Control Agency (ANSACA) has called for stronger protection of the girl child against gender-based violence (GBV), sexual abuse and exploitation, warning that these threats undermine girls’ health, dignity and future while increasing their vulnerability to HIV infection.
The Executive Director of ANSACA, Dr. Nkem Okeke, made the call as the world commemorated the 2026 International Day of the Girl Child, while commending the administration of Governor Chukwuma Soludo for its efforts to protect women and children through legal safeguards, free education, child protection initiatives and measures to combat sexual exploitation.
Dr. Okeke applauded the recent directive to investigate and prosecute gender-based inheritance discrimination under the Anambra State Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Law, 2017, describing it as an important step towards safeguarding the rights and dignity of women and girls.
He also acknowledged the contributions of the Wife of the Governor, Dr. Mrs. Nonye Soludo, through the Healthy Living with Nonye Soludo Initiative, particularly her advocacy against child abuse and support for justice, protection and rehabilitation of survivors.
“Protecting the girl child from sexual violence is protecting her from HIV. Sexual abuse exposes girls to HIV, other sexually transmitted infections, unwanted pregnancies and psychological trauma.
Our HIV prevention efforts cannot succeed without addressing the violence and inequalities that make adolescent girls and young women vulnerable,” he stated.
The ANSACA Executive Director reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to HIV awareness, prevention education, confidential testing, counselling and access to appropriate healthcare services.
He emphasised the need for survivors of sexual violence to receive prompt medical attention, including HIV post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) within 72 hours of possible exposure, alongside psychosocial and legal support.
The agency urged parents, teachers, community leaders, security agencies and relevant government institutions to strengthen child protection mechanisms, report abuse promptly and ensure that survivors receive necessary support without stigma or discrimination.
ANSACA also called for stronger collaboration among relevant ministries, healthcare providers and civil society organisations to integrate HIV prevention into gender-based violence response programmes.
As Anambra joins the global commemoration, Dr. Okeke reiterated that achieving an AIDS-free Anambra by 2030 requires protecting, educating and empowering every girl to live free from violence, discrimination and HIV.
