The State Commissioner for Health, Professor Enoch Ogbonnaya Uche
The Abia State government has commenced the recruitment of 771 health workers in a bid to strengthen its healthcare system amid rising concerns over a resurgence of HIV/AIDS cases and persistent maternal health challenges across the state.
The State Commissioner for Health, Professor Enoch Ogbonnaya Uche, made this known during a workshop organised by the Federal Ministry of Health under the Nigeria Health Sector Renewal Investment Initiative.
The workshop was aimed at preparing the framework for the Ministry’s 2026 operational plans.
Uche said the recruitment drive is part of Governor Alex Otti’s broader efforts to reposition the state’s health sector by increasing the availability of skilled personnel, especially in underserved areas. Applications for the positions are open until August, he noted.
He acknowledged the World Health Organization’s (WHO) support to the state, adding that continuous training and capacity building for health workers is crucial for improving healthcare delivery.
A major concern raised during the four-week workshop was the alarming increase in HIV/AIDS cases in the state.
Health workers and stakeholders pointed to funding cuts by international partners as a key factor driving the resurgence.
According to the participants, the reduction in foreign aid—particularly from the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID)—following former President Donald Trump’s anti-aid policies, has disrupted the supply of subsidised antiretroviral drugs in Nigeria and other countries.
As a result, many patients in Abia are reportedly unable to access or afford life-saving HIV medications.
“HIV/AIDS is now on the increase. Most patients are out of their drugs because of Trump’s policy, which affected supplies by our donor agency USAID,” a stakeholder noted.
Beyond the HIV crisis, the state is also grappling with high maternal mortality rates, particularly in Bende, Ugwunagbo, and Ukwa East Local Government Areas.
Stakeholders blamed the situation on a lack of skilled birth attendants, poor infrastructure, and limited access to primary healthcare services in rural communities.
The ongoing recruitment of health personnel is expected to help close these service gaps by deploying new staff across primary and secondary healthcare facilities in all LGAs.
Participants at the workshop also called for the timely delivery of healthcare products and medications from donor agencies to prevent stockouts and drug expiration.
They stressed the importance of a renewed sensitisation campaign on HIV prevention, testing, and treatment adherence, especially among high-risk populations.
As Abia navigates these multiple health challenges, officials say the state is committed to creating a responsive, well-equipped healthcare system that prioritises access, affordability, and quality care for all residents.