LAGOS BATTLES HIV CRISIS: 160,000 RESIDENTS AFFECTED
GREATRIBUNETVNEWS–THE Lagos State Government has revealed that approximately 160,000 residents are living with HIV, with 147,466 currently receiving antiretroviral treatment, according to Dr. Folakemi Animashaun, CEO of the Lagos State AIDS Control Agency (LSACA)
Key Highlights:
– HIV Prevalence : Estimated 160,000 residents living with HIV as of January to September 2025
– Treatment : 147,466 persons on antiretroviral treatment
– Testing Disruptions : 222,415 HIV tests conducted, representing 28.9% of last year’s testing output
– Impact : Vulnerable groups, including adolescents and key populations, felt the impact most
– Government Response : Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s support strengthens health systems and community networks
– Challenges: Stop Work Order by the US Government disrupted community-level HIV interventions
– Recovery Efforts : Statewide Community HIV Testing Campaign launched, with 9,943 residents tested and 2% positivity rate
– Call to Action : Sustain engagement, early testing, and strong community support to overcome disruptions
Despite the setbacks, she lauded community groups for adapting swiftly and restoring services.
“Their unwavering commitment has allowed Lagos to regain lost momentum,” she noted.
According to her, the agency’s ongoing Statewide Community HIV Testing Campaign, which began on November 18, has tested 9,943 residents, with a 2.0 per cent positivity yield, all of whom have been linked to care.
“Women are showing strong participation, particularly in Ikorodu, Badagry, Ojo, and Mushin, demonstrating the success of market-based and community-cluster strategies.
“Positive cases have been identified across multiple LGAs, confirming that HIV remains a disease of public health concern in the state,” she added.
Animashaun also spotlighted the state’s intensified anti-stigma efforts and outlined activities lined up for the World AIDS Day commemoration, including a Jumat service, a novelty football match, church outreach, an awareness walk, and a stakeholder symposium.
“Together, we can sustain the HIV response for a healthier, stronger Lagos,” she concluded as she called for collective action to tackle the menace
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