Lagos State Launches Statewide HIV Testing Campaign Ahead of World AIDS Day 2025

Lagos State Launches Statewide HIV Testing Campaign Ahead of World AIDS Day

Lagos, Nigeria – The Lagos State AIDS Control Agency (LSACA) has announced an ambitious statewide HIV testing campaign set to run from November 18 to December 1, 2025. This initiative will span all Local Government Areas (LGAs) and Local Council Development Areas (LCDAs) as part of the lead-up to the 2025 World AIDS Day.

The campaign aims to address the persistent gaps in HIV testing while enhancing public awareness about prevention, treatment options, and stigma reduction. In a recent announcement via its X handle, LSACA emphasized the importance of early detection and the need to strengthen links to treatment and care.

Dr. Folakemi Animashaun, LSACA’s Chief Executive Officer, highlighted the significance of this initiative. “As we approach the 2025 World AIDS Day, our priority is to ensure that every resident of Lagos has the opportunity to know their HIV status in a safe, confidential, and accessible manner,” she stated. “Testing remains the gateway to prevention and treatment, and this statewide exercise underscores our commitment to safeguarding the health and well-being of all Lagosians.”

To facilitate the campaign, LSACA has deployed trained counsellor-testers equipped with testing kits, condoms, and educational materials to communities throughout the state. The agency is collaborating with development partners and community-based organizations to extend services to underserved areas, encouraging residents to take advantage of the free testing points established across LGAs and LCDAs.

Animashaun reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to improving access to HIV services, noting ongoing efforts to expand testing and counselling centres while intensifying awareness campaigns aimed at reducing new infections.

LSACA urges all residents to participate in the free screening, emphasizing that knowing one’s HIV status is crucial for curbing transmission and building an HIV-free future. Established to coordinate Lagos State’s response to the HIV epidemic, LSACA collaborates with government ministries, development organizations, civil society groups, and community structures to implement comprehensive HIV prevention, treatment, and care programs across the state.

As the campaign approaches, the agency is hopeful that increased participation will lead to a significant impact on public health and contribute to the global fight against HIV/AIDS.