RismadarVoice Reporters
November 11, 2026
The Lagos State Government has expanded free HIV testing and counselling services to public servants and visitors attending the ongoing 2026 International Trade Fair at Tafawa Balewa Square, Lagos.
The initiative, implemented by the Lagos State AIDS Control Agency (LSACA), aims to encourage early diagnosis, improve public awareness and strengthen access to HIV prevention, treatment and care services.
According to a statement released by the state government on Wednesday, the intervention forms part of efforts to make confidential HIV screening more accessible to residents.
During the Public Service Week health screening exercise, the Lagos State Head of Service, Bode Agoro, officially inaugurated the programme for public servants.
Agoro emphasised that preventive healthcare was essential to maintaining a healthy and productive workforce.
He encouraged government employees to undergo regular health checks and take advantage of the confidential testing and professional counselling provided.
In a related development, LSACA commenced a 10-day free HIV screening exercise at the Lagos Pavilion, Tafawa Balewa Square, on Friday, November 6.
The programme, scheduled to end on Sunday, November 15, provides traders, exhibitors and visitors with access to testing, counselling and information about HIV prevention.
Healthcare personnel are also available to guide individuals requiring further medical attention towards appropriate treatment and support services.
The Chief Executive Officer of LSACA, Dr Folakemi Animashaun, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to making HIV-related services accessible, confidential and free from discrimination.
She stressed that knowing one’s HIV status was essential for timely treatment and preventing further transmission.
Animashaun encouraged residents to consider HIV testing a routine part of healthcare rather than waiting until symptoms or concerns arise.
The initiative comes amid continued efforts to address Nigeria’s HIV burden.
The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare’s 2025 health report recorded 102,025 HIV cases nationally, including 10,430 reported in Lagos.
However, Lagos health authorities previously clarified that the state’s figure should not be interpreted as 10,430 infections newly acquired during 2025, noting the distinction between newly diagnosed cases and new infections.
LSACA urged residents to visit its screening point at the trade fair before November 15.
The agency added that free HIV testing, counselling and related services remain available at designated healthcare facilities across Lagos State.
It reiterated that early diagnosis, access to treatment and sustained public awareness are essential to reducing HIV transmission and improving health outcomes.
