…As IMOSACA Boss Dr. Chidinma Okoro reaffirms Commitment to Ending HIV Epidemic
By Iheanyi EnweremÂ
The Imo State Government has officially unveiled the Imo State HIV/AIDS Strategic Plan (SSP) 2025–2027, reaffirming its commitment to ending HIV/AIDS as a public health threat through coordinated, evidence-based interventions.
Speaking at the launch held on Tuesday in Owerri, the Deputy Governor of Imo State, Her Excellency, Lady Dr. Chinyere Ihuoma Ekomaru, described the Strategic Plan as a comprehensive roadmap that will guide the state’s response to HIV/AIDS over the next three years.
Ekomaru said the administration remains committed to supporting policies and interventions that will strengthen HIV prevention, expand access to testing and treatment, reduce stigma, and improve healthcare outcomes across the state.
She commended the Imo State Agency for the Control of AIDS (IMSACA), the Ministry of Health, development partners, and other stakeholders for their collaborative efforts in producing the Strategic Plan, noting that it reflects the government’s vision of building an Imo State free from the burden of HIV/AIDS.
According to the Deputy Governor, the Strategic Plan aligns with the National HIV/AIDS Strategic Framework and the Sustainable Development Goals, particularly Goal 3, which seeks to ensure healthy lives and promote well-being for all.
She called on government agencies, development partners, healthcare providers, traditional and religious leaders, civil society organizations, and the private sector to work together towards successful implementation of the plan.
Earlier, the Director General of IMSACA, Dr. Chidimma Okoro, described the launch as another major milestone in Imo State’s efforts to eliminate HIV/AIDS as a public health threat. She noted that the Strategic Plan provides a shared framework for HIV prevention, treatment, care, support, and the protection of the rights of people living with HIV.
Goodwill messages were delivered by the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Chioma Vivian Egu; the Executive Secretary of the Imo State Primary Healthcare Development Agency, Miss Kosilisochukwu Ekenjoku; and the Traditional Ruler of Isiama Autonomous Community, Isiala Mbano LGA, Eze Oliver Ohanwe, who pledged the support of traditional institutions in mobilizing communities for greater awareness and prevention.
The event, attended by government officials, development partners, healthcare professionals, traditional rulers, religious leaders, civil society organizations, and other stakeholders, culminated in the adoption of the validated Imo State HIV/AIDS Strategic Plan 2025–2027, setting the stage for coordinated implementation across the state.