By Capital Watch Media
The Lagos State Government has launched a free HIV screening and counseling initiative through its AIDS Control Agency, LSACA, targeting visitors and exhibitors at the Y2024 Trade Fair held at Tafawa Balewa Square, Lagos.
The programme, which spans from November 1 to 10, 2024, aims to provide accessible HIV testing services as part of the government’s broader commitment to improving public health and curbing the spread of HIV in the state.
Dr. Kadiri Hamzat, the Deputy Governor of Lagos State, inaugurated the trade fair and took time to visit the LSACA pavilion, where he praised the agency’s commitment to HIV prevention and health education.
In his remarks, Hamzat emphasized that sustainable healthcare is a priority for the Lagos State Government, underscoring the importance of maintaining good health for productivity and the well-being of all residents.
He encouraged all attendees to take advantage of the free HIV testing to know their status and seek medical attention early if necessary.
Hamzat also advocated for positive health-seeking behaviors, urging participants to engage in routine health checks and adopt a proactive approach toward their health.
His comments reflect the administration’s holistic view on health care, recognizing that a healthy population is crucial for economic and social development.
The Chief Executive Officer of LSACA, Dr. Folakemi Animashaun, highlighted that the free HIV screening initiative aligns with the agency’s mission to make HIV testing and support services readily available.
She noted that the trade fair provides an ideal platform for reaching a wide audience, including both Lagos residents and international visitors.
According to Animashaun, the initiative is part of LSACA’s ongoing efforts to strengthen public health through various programs and campaigns, including Anti-Retroviral Therapy, ART, programme, HIV awareness, counseling services, community outreach, and youth-centered programs.
Animashaun further explained that the HIV screening service would run throughout the entire duration of the trade fair, ensuring ample opportunity for all attendees to participate.
She highlighted that by offering testing in a convenient, accessible location, LSACA aims to promote awareness and responsible health practices, which are essential in preventing the spread of HIV in the community.
The agency has also ramped up efforts in educating the public about HIV transmission, prevention, and available treatment options.
These efforts, she noted, are designed to reduce stigma, encourage safe health practices, and ultimately reduce the spread of HIV.
The LSACA-led screening exercise reflects a proactive approach by the Lagos State Government in addressing public health challenges.
With ongoing support for initiatives like this, the government aims to foster a health-conscious environment and make health services accessible to all, thus strengthening the state’s healthcare system.
The Y2024 Trade Fair has brought together exhibitors and participants from Nigeria and beyond, making it an ideal venue for public health initiatives.
By reaching a diverse audience, LSACA’s HIV testing and counseling services at the fair aim to create awareness and encourage early diagnosis, which is key to managing HIV effectively and preventing community transmission.
