Abstract

Human Immunodeficiency Virus remains a major public health challenge in Nigeria, particularly in urban centres where population density, mobility, and socio-economic interactions increase vulnerability to transmission. Calabar Municipal, the administrative and commercial hub of Cross River State, exhibits demographic and spatial characteristics that influence HIV distribution and service demand. This study applies Geographic Information System techniques to map and analyze the spatial and temporal patterns of HIV cases in Calabar Municipal between 2020 and 2025. HIV surveillance indicators were examined using descriptive statistics, temporal trend analysis, spatial distribution by ward areas, age–sex disaggregation, and treatment outcome indicators. Results indicate a gradual increase in estimated people living with HIV over the study period, alongside improved antiretroviral therapy enrolment and viral load suppression, and a decline in AIDS-related mortality. Spatial analysis reveals clustering of HIV cases in densely populated and commercially active ward areas. The study demonstrates the usefulness of GIS-based HIV mapping for identifying high-burden zones, monitoring treatment outcomes, and supporting targeted intervention and resource allocation in urban public health planning.