Overview
In March 2019, Akwa Ibom state’s government expressed an intention to enact a law to prosecute people who had wilfully infected or transmitted HIV. The announcement followed the release of HIV prevalence data showing the state’s HIV prevalence far exceeded the national average. It also followed a government-acknowledged decrease in spending on HIV prevention efforts.
We are not aware of this law was ever adopted. However, in September 2024 the state House of Assembly passed an anti-stigma law, aimed at reducing discrimination against people living with HIV. It does not appear to include any criminalising provisions.
HIV Justice Network's Positive Destinations
Visit the Akwa Ibom page on Positive Destinations for information on regulations that restrict entry, stay, and residency based on HIV-positive status, as well as access to HIV treatment for non-nationals.