The Lagos State AIDS Control Agency (LSACA) over the weekend concluded its Free HIV Testing and Counselling Services at the 2025 Lagos International Trade Fair, held at the Tafawa Balewa Square (TBS), Lagos Island.
The exercise recorded remarkable participation, with over 700 exhibitors and visitors voluntarily accessing free HIV testing and confidential counselling. The initiative formed part of LSACA’s ongoing efforts to expand access to HIV services, deepen public awareness, and strengthen Lagos State’s HIV response.
The Chief Executive Officer of LSACA, Dr Folakemi Animashaun, described the turnout as highly encouraging, noting that the Trade Fair remains a strategic platform for community engagement due to its diverse attendance.
“The Lagos International Trade Fair continues to offer a valuable avenue to reach large numbers of people with essential HIV services. We are encouraged by the number of individuals who voluntarily came forward to know their status. This shows that awareness is growing and that more people are taking responsibility for their health,” she said.
Dr Animashaun further explained that exhibitors and visitors benefited not only from free HIV testing and counselling but also from the distribution of condoms and Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) materials. She reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to expanding access to HIV prevention, testing, and treatment services as part of ongoing efforts to curb the spread of the virus.
She emphasised that early detection and timely treatment remain critical to achieving epidemic control, reiterating the state’s resolve to expand HIV testing and counselling centres across Lagos.
“Our presence at the Trade Fair is a testament to our commitment to taking HIV services to the grassroots. We will continue to intensify awareness campaigns and strengthen community-level outreach to ensure no one is left behind”, she said.
The CEO also extended appreciation to LSACA’s partners, volunteers, and the Trade Fair organisers for their support in ensuring a seamless and impactful exercise. She noted that free HIV testing and counselling services remain available at designated Primary Health Centres across the state.
She encouraged all residents to take advantage of the free testing opportunities, stressing that knowing one’s status is the first step to safeguarding personal and community health.
One of the participants, Mrs Funmilayo Olusegun, an exhibitor from Surulere, expressed gratitude for LSACA’s efforts in making HIV Testing and Counselling Services easily accessible during the event.
“The free testing made it easy for many of us to check our status without going to a hospital. It was convenient and confidential, and the counsellors were very professional. I truly appreciate this effort,” she said.
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