The AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) has opened a new wellness centre in Kuje, a town in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
The centre is meant to provide free health services and reach more people in nearby communities.The event took place on Thursday and aimed to inform people about the free testing and treatment for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) available at the centre.
According to reporters, this is the second wellness centre AHF has opened in Nigeria. The first one was launched in Benue State in July.
At the event, AHF’s Country Programme Director, Dr. Echey Ijezie, explained that the centre offers free services like STI testing and treatment, HIV services, counselling, and cervical cancer screening.
“This centre is special because we offer free STI testing and treatment,” Dr. Ijezie said. “We are doing this to help reduce sexual health problems in our communities and to help prevent the spread of HIV/AIDS.”
He added that AHF’s goal is to reduce these problems in society by offering free testing and treatment.
Dr. Ijezie also encouraged the community to tell others about the centre so more people can benefit from the services. He warned against discrimination and said people should help create a society free from STIs.
AHF’s Medical Director, Emmanuel Nwabueze, also spoke at the event. He said there is a need for more public awareness so that more people, especially those in rural areas, can learn about the services provided by the centre.
A nurse at the centre, Chika Judith, said the wellness centre focuses on improving public health, personal dignity, and the well-being of the community.
She said, “We are here to promote the important services our centre provides. These include preventing and treating STIs, screening for cervical cancer, and offering family planning.”
She added that health is not just about not being sick—it’s also about having a good quality of life. The wellness centre offers more than just treatment; it’s also a place for education and prevention.
Nurse Chika said STIs are still a hidden problem in many places. Because of shame and wrong beliefs, many people delay getting help, which makes things worse.
“Our wellness centre gives private and respectful testing and treatment,” she explained. “We also give counselling, condoms, and run awareness campaigns.
We make sure people get quick treatment and the right medicine.”She added, “No one should feel ashamed when they come here. Everyone should feel safe, respected, and informed.
We also offer a test called Visual Inspection with Acetic Acid (VIA), teach women about HPV and vaccines, and give them proper follow-up care.”
She said the centre also works with the community to remove fear and false information. “This is not just about finding diseases—it’s about protecting mothers, sisters, daughters, and their futures.”
The Programme Manager for FCT Action for the Control of AIDS (FACA), Doris John, praised AHF for supporting the government. She said the wellness centre is a great idea that will help many people in the FCT and across Nigeria.
The Chiroma of Kuje, Mr. Useini Bako, who represented the Gomo of Kuje, also spoke at the event. He said traditional leaders will help spread awareness in the communities.
He noted that the new centre will help address many sexual health issues in the local areas.
