Akwa Ibom State Records Historic Milestone in HIV Prevention

Akwa Ibom State has achieved a significant milestone in the fight against HIV with the official launch of Lenacapavir (LEN PrEP), a groundbreaking long-acting injectable medication for HIV prevention. The historic flag-off ceremony was held at the Primary Health Care Operational Base (PHC OP Base), Barracks Road, Uyo, bringing together government officials, healthcare professionals, development partners, civil society organizations, and community representatives dedicated to strengthening HIV prevention efforts across the state.

The launch marks a transformative moment in public health, positioning Akwa Ibom State among the leaders advancing innovative HIV prevention solutions in Nigeria.

The Executive Director of the Milestone Initiative for Human Rights and Empowerment (MIHRE), Uduak Nyaetok, was represented at the event, reaffirming the organization’s commitment to improving access to quality healthcare services and evidence-based HIV prevention interventions.

MIHRE continues to advocate for vulnerable and underserved populations, particularly women who use and inject drugs, ensuring they have access to lifesaving healthcare services and prevention options.

Lenacapavir represents a new generation of HIV prevention tools. Unlike traditional daily HIV prevention medications, LEN PrEP is a long-acting injectable option designed to provide highly effective protection while reducing many of the challenges associated with daily adherence.

The introduction of LEN PrEP offers individuals at substantial risk of HIV infection a convenient and innovative prevention choice that can significantly contribute to reducing new HIV infections and improving public health outcomes.

The successful introduction of LEN PrEP reflects the collaborative efforts of the Akwa Ibom State Government, healthcare providers, development partners, civil society organizations, and communities working together toward the shared goal of ending HIV as a public health threat.

MIHRE commends all stakeholders whose dedication, leadership, and partnership made this historic achievement possible.

Facilities Currently Providing LEN PrEP Services in Akwa Ibom State

LEN PrEP services are currently available at the following health facilities:

• Primary Health Center Operational Base, Uyo
• University of Uyo Teaching Hospital (UUTH)
• General Hospital, Ikot Ekpene
• General Hospital, Iquita Oron
• Primary Health Center, Mbo
• Heartland Alliance One Stop Shop, Uyo
• Imaobong Missionary Hospital, Ibesikpo
• Immanuel General Hospital, Eket
• Primary Health Center, Ikot Ebok, Eket

As Akwa Ibom State continues to lead in HIV prevention innovation, the launch of LEN PrEP brings renewed hope for stronger communities, improved health outcomes, and a future where everyone has access to the healthcare services and prevention tools they need to thrive.

By expanding access to cutting-edge HIV prevention options, Akwa Ibom State is taking another important step toward reducing new HIV infections and building an HIV-free generation.

The Milestone Initiative for Human Rights and Empowerment (MIHRE) is committed to advancing health equity, promoting human rights, and improving access to quality healthcare services for vulnerable and marginalized populations through evidence-based interventions and strategic partnerships.  Lenacapavir, LEN PrEP, HIV Prevention, Akwa Ibom State, Uyo, HIV Services Nigeria, Public Health, HIV-Free Generation, MIHRE, Long-Acting Injectable PrEP, Healthcare Innovation, HIV Prevention Nigeria.

#LenacapavirLaunch
#LENPrEP
#HIVPrevention
#EndHIV
#AkwaIbomState
#Uyo,   #ViiVhealthcare
#HIVFreeGeneration
#PublicHealth
#HealthcareInnovation
#PrEPWorks
#HealthForAll
#CommunityHealth
#MIHRE  ,      #HALG

WORLD MENSTRUAL HYGIENE DAY 2026

Yesterday, Milestone Initiative for Human Rights and Empowerment proudly commemorated World Menstrual Hygiene Day through a targeted outreach focused exclusively on female drug users within our communities.

This initiative reflects our commitment to promoting health, dignity, inclusion, and human rights for women who are often excluded from mainstream healthcare services due to stigma, substance use, and social marginalization.

Supporting Menstrual Health Among Female Drug Users

As part of the commemoration, sanitary pads and condoms were distributed to support menstrual hygiene management and sexual and reproductive health among female drug users.

We also provided education on proper menstrual hygiene practices, menstrual cycle tracking and calculation, and overall reproductive health awareness. These sessions were designed to equip participants with practical knowledge to improve their health, dignity, and wellbeing.

In addition, awareness was created on HIV prevention, including information on the use of Pre-Exposure Prophylaxis (PrEP) as an effective tool for reducing the risk of HIV transmission.

Reaching a Highly Vulnerable Population

Female drug users remain one of the most marginalized and underserved groups in society. Many face stigma, discrimination, poverty, violence, unstable living conditions, and limited access to essential healthcare services.

Through this outreach, Milestone Initiative reaffirmed its commitment to ensuring that female drug users are not excluded from menstrual health education, hygiene support, and HIV prevention services.

Menstrual Health Is a Human Right

Menstrual health is not a privilege—it is a fundamental human right. Every woman deserves access to safe menstrual hygiene products, accurate information, and a supportive environment that promotes dignity and wellbeing, regardless of her circumstances.

Building Dignity, Health, and Inclusion

Through continuous education, outreach, and distribution of essential health commodities, we aim to empower female drug users to make informed decisions about their health and future.

Together, we are breaking stigma, restoring dignity, and building healthier, more inclusive communities where even the most vulnerable women are supported and not left behind.

Health. Dignity. Equality. Empowerment.

#WorldMenstrualHygieneDay
#PeriodFriendlyWorld
#MenstrualHealth
#MenstrualHygiene
#EndPeriodStigma
#HIVPrevention
#PrEPAwareness
#WomenEmpowerment
#CommunityImpact
#MilestoneInitiative
#HealthForAll

Milestone Initiative Commemorates International Day of Action for Women’s Health

Milestone Initiative for Human Rights and Empowerment proudly commemorated the International Day of Action for Women’s Health, reaffirming our commitment to promoting women’s health rights, dignity, equality, and access to essential healthcare services for all women and girls.

The International Day of Action for Women’s Health serves as a global reminder that women’s health is a fundamental human right, not a privilege reserved for a few. It highlights the need for governments, organizations, communities, and stakeholders to address the barriers that prevent many women from accessing quality healthcare, mental health support, reproductive health services, protection, and opportunities for personal development.

Why the International Day of Action for Women’s Health Matters

Despite progress in many areas, millions of women and girls around the world continue to face significant challenges in accessing healthcare and support services. Vulnerable populations, including women affected by substance abuse, addiction, poverty, violence, discrimination, and social exclusion, often experience even greater barriers to receiving the care they need.

Many female drug users face stigma and judgment instead of support and rehabilitation. These barriers can prevent women from seeking healthcare, mental health services, counseling, and recovery programs that could improve their quality of life and overall wellbeing.

The International Day of Action for Women’s Health provides an opportunity to advocate for inclusive healthcare systems that leave no woman behind.

Promoting Women’s Health, Dignity, and Inclusion

At Milestone Initiative for Human Rights and Empowerment, we believe that every woman deserves access to healthcare, recovery support, protection, education, and opportunities to rebuild her life with dignity.

Women’s health extends beyond medical treatment. It encompasses physical wellbeing, mental health, emotional resilience, personal safety, reproductive health, and the ability to make informed decisions about one’s future.

When women have access to quality healthcare services and support systems, they are better positioned to contribute to their families, communities, and society as a whole.

Our Call for Action

As part of this commemoration, Milestone Initiative continues to advocate for:

• Equal access to healthcare services for all women and girls
• Improved mental health awareness and support
• Compassionate care and rehabilitation services for women affected by substance abuse
• Protection from stigma, discrimination, abuse, and violence
• Sexual and reproductive health rights
• Women’s empowerment through education, advocacy, and inclusion
• Community-based support systems that promote recovery and wellbeing

Supporting Women Who Use Drugs

Our work is dedicated to supporting women who use drugs, many of whom face multiple and overlapping challenges, including stigma, discrimination, social exclusion, poverty, violence, and mental health concerns. These barriers often limit their access to healthcare, treatment, social support, and opportunities for recovery and empowerment.

At Milestone Initiative for Human Rights and Empowerment, we recognize that women who use drugs deserve compassion, respect, and access to quality healthcare without fear of judgment or discrimination. We believe that effective support must be grounded in dignity, human rights, education, advocacy, and access to comprehensive health and social services.

No woman should be denied healthcare, protection, or opportunities because of her drug use or life circumstances. Every woman deserves to be treated with dignity, supported in making informed decisions about her health, and given the opportunity to improve her wellbeing and reach her full potential.

By promoting inclusion, reducing stigma, and expanding access to essential services, we can help ensure that women who use drugs are not left behind and are empowered to lead healthier, safer, and more fulfilling lives.

Building a Healthier Future for Women

The International Day of Action for Women’s Health reminds us that achieving health equity requires collective action. Governments, civil society organizations, healthcare providers, community leaders, and individuals all have a role to play in creating a world where women can access the care and support they need.

Milestone Initiative for Human Rights and Empowerment remains committed to advancing women’s health rights, promoting mental health awareness, supporting recovery and rehabilitation, and advocating for policies and programs that empower women and girls.

Together, we can build healthier communities, reduce stigma, expand access to healthcare, and create a more inclusive society where every woman has the opportunity to thrive.

Health. Dignity. Equality. Empowerment.

#InternationalDayOfActionForWomensHealth
#WomensHealth
#WomenEmpowerment
#HealthForAll
#MentalHealthAwareness
#SupportWomen
#EndStigma
#WomenAndRecovery
#HumanRights
#HealthyWomenHealthyWorld
#MilestoneInitiative
#WomenHealthRights
#DrugRecoverySupport
#EndHealthInequality
#HALG
#ViiVHealthcare