By Bilkis Abdulraheem Lawal
The Lagos State AIDS Control Agency (LSACA) has successfully provided free HIV testing and counselling to over 700 visitors and exhibitors at the 2025 Lagos International Trade Fair, held at Tafawa Balewa Square (TBS), Lagos Island, as part of ongoing efforts to promote early diagnosis and strengthen community-level response to HIV.
The initiative, which ran throughout the Trade Fair, enabled hundreds of participants to access confidential HIV testing services, counselling support, and educational materials aimed at fostering greater awareness and preventive practices.
The Chief Executive Officer of LSACA, Dr. Folakemi Animashaun, described the turnout as “highly encouraging” and indicative of growing public awareness and willingness to engage in preventive health measures.
“The Lagos International Trade Fair is a strategic platform to reach a diverse audience with critical health services. We are encouraged by the number of people who voluntarily came forward for HIV testing and counselling. This demonstrates increased awareness and responsibility towards personal health,” Dr. Animashaun said.
In addition to testing services, LSACA distributed condoms and Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) materials designed to encourage safe practices and enhance public understanding of HIV prevention and treatment options.
Dr. Animashaun reaffirmed the Lagos State Government’s commitment to expanding access to HIV prevention, testing, and treatment services, noting that early diagnosis is critical to controlling the spread of the virus and achieving epidemic control.
“Our presence at the Trade Fair underscores our resolve to bring life-saving services closer to the grassroots. We will continue to intensify awareness campaigns and drive community outreach to ensure no one is left behind,” she added.
She extended appreciation to LSACA’s partners, volunteers, and the organisers of the Trade Fair for their support in ensuring the successful delivery of services. She reminded the public that free HIV testing and counselling remain available in designated Primary Health Centres across the state.
One of the beneficiaries of the initiative, Mrs. Funmilayo Olusegun, an exhibitor from Surulere, praised the exercise for making HIV testing accessible and stress-free.
“The free testing made it convenient for many of us to know our status without going to the hospital. The process was confidential, and the staff were very professional. It was a great initiative,” she said.
The Lagos International Trade Fair remains a significant event for public health outreach, and LSACA’s participation reflects the state’s ongoing efforts to promote a healthier, informed, and empowered population.
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