The Anambra State House of Assembly has passed a landmark bill prohibiting all forms of discrimination against persons living with HIV and those affected by AIDS within the state.
The legislation also guarantees access to care, support, and protection for these individuals marking a significant advancement in human rights and inclusive healthcare in Anambra.
The bill passed its third reading during plenary following a detailed review by the House Committee on Health, chaired by Mr Tony Moubike.
The session was presided over by Speaker of the House, Sir Somtochukwu Udeze, who commended the lawmakers for their dedication and thorough engagement with the bill.
During the deliberations, the House resolved into a Committee of the Whole to scrutinise, amend, and finalise the provisions before returning to plenary for its formal passage.
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Introducing the bill, Mr Noble Igwe, who represents Ogbaru Constituency 1, explained that the legislation was borne out of a need to combat stigma and protect the rights and dignity of individuals living with or affected by HIV/AIDS in the state.
“This law is intended to eliminate all forms of discrimination based on HIV status. It ensures that individuals can continue to live and work under normal conditions for as long as they are medically fit, and it creates a supportive environment for them to thrive,” Igwe stated.
He added that the law aligns with the fundamental human rights enshrined in Chapter 4 of the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (as amended), promoting equality and shared societal responsibility.
In his remarks, Speaker Udeze hailed the passage of the bill as a “landmark development” and praised the Committee on Health and fellow lawmakers for their commitment to the wellbeing of residents. The new law is expected to come into effect on 3 July 2025.
