The Lagos State Government, through the Lagos State AIDS Control Agency (LSACA), has rolled out free HIV testing and counselling services for public servants and attendees of the 2026 International Trade Fair, reinforcing the message that HIV screening should be a routine health practice rather than a reaction to suspected infection.
The initiative, which began on Friday, 6 November 2026, and runs until Sunday, 15 November at the Lagos Pavilion within Tafawa Balewa Square, provides confidential screening, professional counselling, preventive health information, and referrals for treatment and care where needed. A parallel exercise was also opened during the Public Service Week health screening programme.
What prompted the expanded testing drive?
At the Public Service Week event, the Head of Service, Lagos State, Mr Bode Agoro, officially inaugurated the free screening programme. He stressed that access to preventive healthcare, including HIV testing, is fundamental to maintaining a healthy, productive, and efficient workforce. Agoro encouraged civil servants to embrace regular health checks and take advantage of the confidential services on offer.
Why is routine HIV testing important?
The Chief Executive Officer of LSACA, Dr Folakemi Animashaun, reaffirmed the state government's commitment to ensuring HIV prevention, testing, and treatment services remain accessible, confidential, and free from discrimination. She highlighted that knowing one's HIV status is a critical step in preventing new infections and improving health outcomes, noting that early diagnosis allows individuals who test positive to begin treatment promptly and live healthy, productive lives.
Dr Animashaun urged public servants, Trade Fair participants, and residents across the state to adopt HIV testing as part of routine healthcare. She also emphasised the importance of collaboration among ministries, departments, and agencies, development partners, civil society organisations, and other stakeholders in expanding access to comprehensive HIV services.
Where can residents access these services?
Beyond the Trade Fair venue, similar free testing and counselling services are available at designated health facilities across Lagos State. LSACA continues to work towards bringing HIV-related services closer to communities, encouraging regular testing, and linking those who need further care to appropriate treatment centres.
Background: Lagos State has consistently prioritised HIV control through LSACA, aligning with national and global targets to end AIDS as a public health threat. Routine testing is a cornerstone of this strategy, enabling early detection and reducing onward transmission.