As the world commemorates World AIDS Day 2025, the Association of Medical Laboratory Scientists of Nigeria (AMLSN), Imo State Branch, has renewed its call for stronger HIV testing services, improved community engagement, and sustained investment in quality laboratory systems. This year’s theme, “Overcoming Disruption, Transforming the AIDS Response,” highlights the need to rebuild HIV services affected by social and economic challenges.
Speaking in Owerri, the AMLSN Imo Branch Chairman and Quality Management System Expert, Chijioke Obinna, noted that disruptions in healthcare delivery have slowed progress in HIV prevention and treatment. He stressed that early diagnosis, reliable laboratory services, and continuous viral load monitoring remain critical to revitalizing the HIV response.
Obinna reaffirmed the central role of Medical Laboratory Scientists in combating HIV/AIDS, emphasizing their contributions in diagnosis, treatment monitoring, drug-resistance detection, and public health surveillance. He identified priority areas for Imo State, including expanding access to quality-assured HIV testing across all LGAs and improving viral load testing and early diagnosis.
He also underscored the importance of promoting ISO 15189–aligned laboratory quality systems, stating that accurate results rely on strong infrastructure, well-trained personnel, and continuous quality improvement. Obinna further called for intensified efforts to eliminate stigma, describing it as a major barrier preventing individuals from seeking care.
The AMLSN Chairman encouraged stronger collaboration with government agencies, NGOs, donors, and international partners to enhance HIV services in the state. He commended Medical Laboratory Scientists for their steadfast dedication to providing essential HIV diagnostic services despite systemic disruptions.
As Nigeria pushes toward eliminating AIDS as a public health threat, AMLSN Imo State urges residents to get tested, know their HIV status, support persons living with HIV, advocate for quality laboratory services, and stand firmly against stigma.