AHF Opens Second Wellness Centre in Abuja, Urges Community Members to Access Free Health Services

By Dooshima Terkura, Makurdi

The AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) has inaugurated a new Wellness Centre in Kuje, a suburb of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), to expand access to health services and reach more communities across the region.

The event, held on Thursday, focused on sensitizing residents about the free Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI) testing and treatment available at the Centre.

This marks the second Wellness Centre established by AHF in Nigeria, following the first launched in Benue State in July.

Speaking at the opening, AHF Country Program Director, Dr. Echey Ijezie, explained that the Centre offers free STI services, including counseling, treatment, cervical cancer screening, and HIV care.

“This is a specialized facility for free STI testing and treatment. Our goal is to tackle sexually related health challenges in communities. By addressing these, we also reduce the spread of HIV/AIDS. As an organization, we are committed to prevention, treatment, and reducing the burden of these challenges at no cost,” Dr. Ijezie stated.

He further urged community members to utilize the services and help spread awareness, while cautioning against stigma that discourages people from seeking help.

AHF Medical Director, Emmanuel Nwabueze, also called for greater advocacy to reach people in rural communities and other parts of the FCT, stressing the importance of sensitization on the Centre’s activities.

Wellness staff, Nurse Chika Judith, emphasized the significance of the Centre in public health.

“This initiative touches on health, dignity, and community well-being. Beyond treatment, the Wellness Centre provides education, prevention, and family planning. Health is not just the absence of illness; it is the foundation of productivity and a fulfilling life,” she said.

She described STIs as a “silent crisis” worsened by stigma and misinformation, which often delay treatment. According to her, the Centre ensures confidential services, preventive tools like condoms, awareness campaigns, and timely treatment.

“No one who walks through our doors should feel judged. They should feel safe, informed, and respected. We also provide Visual Inspection with Acetic Acid (VIA), HPV education, vaccination awareness, and follow-up care,” she added.

The Programme Manager of the FCT Action for the Control of AIDS (FACA), Doris John, praised AHF for supporting government interventions, describing the initiative as a major step toward improving access to healthcare.

Similarly, the Chiroma of Kuje, Alhaji Useini Bako, who represented the Gomo of Kuje, assured that the traditional institution would support the campaign across communities, noting that the Centre would help address pressing sexual health challenges.