…LSACA takes testing and counselling services closer to residents to promote early diagnosis and access to treatment
The Lagos State Government has intensified its HIV prevention and awareness campaign with the provision of free and confidential HIV testing and counselling services for public servants and visitors to the ongoing Y2026 International Trade Fair in Lagos.
The interventions, implemented by the Lagos State AIDS Control Agency (LSACA), are aimed at expanding access to HIV services, promoting early diagnosis and encouraging residents to know their HIV status as part of routine healthcare.
At the Public Service Week health screening exercise, the Head of Service, Lagos State, Mr. Bode Agoro, officially declared open the free screening programme, emphasising the importance of prioritising the health and well-being of public servants.
Mr. Agoro noted that access to preventive healthcare, including HIV screening, was essential to building a healthy, productive and efficient workforce. He urged public servants across the State to take advantage of the opportunity to access confidential testing, professional counselling and accurate information on HIV prevention, transmission and treatment.
He further encouraged workers to make regular health checks a personal responsibility, stressing that maintaining good health was vital to effective public service delivery.
In a related intervention, LSACA has commenced free HIV Testing and Counselling services at the Lagos Pavilion, Tafawa Balewa Square (TBS), as part of activities at the Y2026 International Trade Fair. The exercise, which began on Friday, November 6, is scheduled to run for ten days, ending on Sunday, November 15, 2026.
The initiative provides visitors, exhibitors, traders and other participants with convenient access to free and confidential HIV screening within the Trade Fair environment. The Agency’s team also provides counselling, preventive health information and guidance on linkage to appropriate treatment and care services for individuals who require further support.
Speaking on the interventions, the Chief Executive Officer of LSACA, Dr. Folakemi Animashaun, reaffirmed the Lagos State Government’s commitment to making HIV prevention, testing and treatment services accessible, confidential and free from discrimination.
Dr. Animashaun emphasised that knowing one’s HIV status remains a critical step towards preventing new infections and improving health outcomes. She explained that early diagnosis enables individuals who test positive to commence treatment promptly, maintain good health and live productive lives.
She therefore urged public servants, Trade Fair visitors and residents across the State to take advantage of the free screening opportunities, noting that HIV testing should be embraced as a routine healthcare practice rather than something reserved for when an individual suspects an infection.
The LSACA Chief Executive further reiterated the Agency’s commitment to strengthening collaboration with Ministries, Departments and Agencies, development partners, civil society organisations and other stakeholders to expand the reach of HIV prevention, testing, treatment and care services across Lagos State.
Members of the public are encouraged to visit the LSACA screening point at the Lagos Pavilion, Tafawa Balewa Square, during the ongoing Trade Fair. Residents can also access free HIV testing, counselling and other essential services at designated health facilities across Lagos State.
LSACA remains committed to a Lagos where everyone can access HIV services, know their status and receive the support needed to live healthy and productive lives.
Public Affairs unit
Lagos State AIDS Control Agency
( LSACA)
10th November.2026
