Umuahia:Community-Based Organisations in Abia, under the Network of People Living with HIV and AIDS in Nigeria (NEPWHAN), have raised concerns over inadequate HIV and Tuberculosis services at Primary Healthcare Centres (PHCs) in the state.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, these organizations, including Greater Women Initiative to Health and Right, Synergy for Health Rights and Education, and Victirian Clarion Foundation, shared their findings from the July to September 2026 quarter during a media roundtable. State Monitoring and Evaluation Officer for NEPWHAN, Chief Whyte Ikocha, reported that the Community-Led Monitoring initiative is part of the Global Fund GC7 grant, covering 13 states, including Abia.
Ikocha highlighted that PHCs are often the initial healthcare point for rural residents. However, there is a significant issue with proper referrals and follow-ups for patients testing positive for HIV or presumed to have TB. This challenge is attributed to the lack of dedicated referral personnel, inadequate documentation, and the absence of feedback systems between PHCs and secondary healthcare facilities.
He urged media partners to continue evidence-based advocacy reporting to pressure authorities into improving referral and linkage systems. Ikocha emphasized the need for a timely supply of essential drugs and increased support to healthcare facilities to ensure communities can access necessary HIV, TB, and malaria services without unnecessary hurdles.
Media representatives at the meeting committed to maintaining their collaboration with NEPWHAN to ensure that the evidence gathered leads to better health outcomes in Abia.