Lagos govt reveal 160,000 residents currently living with HIV

The Lagos state government has revealed that an estimated 160,000 residents are currently living with the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV).

The figure was revealed by the Lagos State AIDS Control Agency (LSACA) during its World AIDS Day 2025 press briefing on Thursday, November 27.

Presenting the state’s progress report at Alausa, Ikeja, LSACA’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Folakemi Animashaun, said the estimates cover the period from January to September 2025.

She noted that of the estimated cases, 147,466 residents are on antiretroviral treatment.

Animashaun commended governor Babajide Sanwo Olu’s leadership, stating that his support strengthens health systems and community networks, empowering efforts to prevent, detect, and treat HIV.

She highlighted that the year’s World AIDS Day theme, “Overcoming Disruptions: Sustaining Nigeria’s HIV Response,” reflects the challenges Lagos faced, particularly following the stop work order issued by the United States (US) government, which disrupted community-level HIV interventions.

The report noted that the US order, issued under an executive review of foreign aid in January, slowed HIV testing, counselling, and psychosocial support, particularly affecting vulnerable groups.

During the reporting period, Lagos conducted 222,415 HIV tests just 28.9% of the previous year’s output underscoring the impact of these disruptions.

Despite the challenges, LSACA praised community groups for quickly restoring services.

The agency’s ongoing Statewide Community HIV Testing Campaign, launched on November 18, has tested 9,943 residents, with a 2% positivity yield.

All positive cases have been linked to care.

Animashaun also noted strong participation by women in Local Governments Areas (LGAs) such as Ikorodu, Badagry, Ojo, and Mushin, demonstrating the success of market-based and community-cluster strategies.

She stressed that HIV remains a public health concern in Lagos.

The agency outlined activities for World AIDS Day, including a Jumat service, a novelty football match, church outreach, an awareness walk, and a stakeholder symposium.

She added,“Together, we can sustain the HIV response for a healthier, stronger Lagos through collective action to combat the disease.”