CROSS RIVER, CALABAR – Stakeholders in HIV/AIDS prevention and response in Cross River State have convened in Calabar for a Strategic Plan Development Workshop aimed at shaping the State’s HIV/AIDS response for 2025-2027.
The meeting reviewed the performance of the 2021-2025 State Strategic Plan, identified gaps, and set priority areas for the new plan, which will align with the National Strategic Plan and emphasize realistic implementation costs.
Speaking at the workshop, Director General of the National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA), Dr. Temitope Ilori, represented by Deputy Director Dr. Chukwugozie Uyam, commended the Cross River State Government for its commitment to HIV response.
He warned that international funding was no longer available and stressed the need for a sustainable, locally driven approach.
“The new strategic plan must address gaps in HIV/AIDS prevention while ensuring effective use of local resources,” Uyam stated.
He also emphasized the importance of using genuine, locally generated data rather than relying on figures from donor agencies.
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Director General of the Cross River State Agency for the Control of AIDS (SACA), Dr. Charles Iwara, assured stakeholders that the State would fully implement the plan.
He highlighted Governor Prince Bassey Otu’s commitment to healthcare, citing adequate budgetary provisions for the sector.
“The Governor prioritizes the well-being of Cross River residents, and this programme will have his full support,” Iwara affirmed.
Commissioner for Information, Dr. Erasmus Ekpang, represented by Permanent Secretary Ntunkae Offiong Ani Offiong, applauded the Governor for reactivating SACA.
She pledged the Ministry’s support in sensitizing the public on HIV prevention, warning against complacency towards the infection.
Stakeholders, including Implementing Partners (IPs), raised concerns about the lack of accurate data for effective programme execution.
They called for a systemic approach to data collection to facilitate better planning and implementation.
The review of the 2025-2027 Strategic Plan, moderated by NACA Consultant Hon. Bassey Ibor, identified gaps in the existing plan and outlined thematic areas for improvement.
Supporting the initiative, NTA Calabar General Manager, Mr. Adekunle Ajibola, and other partners pledged their commitment to its success.
As stakeholders work towards a comprehensive strategy, experts remain optimistic that a collaborative effort and sustained commitment will strengthen the fight against HIV/AIDS in Cross River State