‘160,000 Residents in Lagos Are Living with HIV’ — LASCA

By Micheal Chukwuebuka

LAGOS State has revealed that about 160,000 residents are living with Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), according to Dr. Folakemi Animashaun, CEO of the Lagos State Aids Control Agency (LASCA). She made the disclosure during a press conference marking the 2025 World AIDS Day, themed “Overcoming Disruptions: Sustaining Nigeria’s HIV Response.”

Dr. Animashaun commended Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, saying, “His unwavering support strengthens both our health systems and community networks, ensuring that every effort to prevent, detect, and treat HIV is empowered and sustained.”

She noted that interruptions caused by the US government’s Stop Work Order affected community outreach, particularly for adolescents, key populations, and residents in hard-to-reach areas. “The strength of any health response is measured not only by what happens within clinics but also by the reach, trust, and continuity of community engagement,” she said.

As of January to September 2025, 147,466 residents living with HIV are on antiretroviral treatment, while 222,415 tests were conducted just 28.9 per cent of last year’s figure due to the disruptions.

The ongoing Statewide Community HIV Testing Campaign, launched on November 18, 2025, has tested 9,943 residents with a positivity yield of 2.0 per cent. “Those who tested positive were linked to care. This campaign highlights the power of sustained, community-driven outreach,” she added.

World AIDS Day activities include religious engagements, a novelty football match, awareness walks, and a symposium to foster education, early detection, and community resilience. Dr. Animashaun emphasized, “It underscores the importance of collaboration across all sectors and faith communities in overcoming disruptions and sustaining the HIV response in Lagos State.”