The Lagos State government on Thursday revealed that about 160,000 residents are currently living with the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). The Chief Executive Officer of the Lagos State AIDS Control Agency (LSACA), Dr. Folakemi Animashaun, made this known during a press conference to mark the 2025 World AIDS Day, themed “Overcoming Disruptions: Sustaining Nigeria’s HIV Response”.
Animashaun acknowledged the leadership of Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu, noting that his commitment has continued to strengthen health systems and community networks across the state. She said the theme of this year’s commemoration reflects both the challenges and resilience witnessed in Lagos. According to her, while hospitals and treatment centres maintained uninterrupted services in 2025, community structures faced major setbacks due to the Stop Work Order issued by the US government. The directive slowed interventions such as testing, counselling, and psychosocial support, especially for adolescents, key populations, and residents in hard-to-reach areas.
Animashaun stressed that these disruptions highlighted the critical role of community-based engagement in early diagnosis, treatment access, and prevention education. She, however, commended peer educators, support groups, faith-based partners, youth advocates, and civil society organisations for quickly adapting and re-establishing outreach channels, helping Lagos State recover lost ground. “As of January to September 2025, Lagos State has an estimated 160,000 residents living with HIV, with 147,466 on antiretroviral treatment,” she said. “Within the same period, 222,415 tests were conducted—only 28.9 per cent of last year’s figure—showing the significant impact of the stop-order directive on testing services.”
She noted that the ongoing Statewide Community HIV Testing Campaign, which began on November 18, 2025, is already yielding results. So far, 9,943 residents have been tested—3,402 males and 6,541 females—with a positivity rate of 2.0 per cent. All positive cases have been linked to treatment. Young adults aged 20–35 have shown the highest turnout, while women in Ikorodu, Badagry, Ojo, and Mushin have demonstrated strong participation due to community-focused strategies.
Animashaun said the 2025 World AIDS Day activities were designed not only to commemorate the day but also to strengthen awareness, early detection, and community resilience. Outreach efforts are being intensified through religious institutions, schools, markets, and social media platforms targeting young people.
She highlighted the key activities lined up, including the Jumat Service on Friday, November 28; a novelty football match on Saturday, November 29; church service on Sunday, November 30; and an awareness walk and empowerment programme on Monday, December 1. The events will culminate in the World AIDS Day Symposium on Tuesday, December 2, which will bring together stakeholders, partners, health professionals, and community leaders for collaboration and knowledge-sharing aimed at sustaining Lagos State’s HIV response.
