Lagos Government Fixes Date for Free HIV Test

• The Lagos State AIDS Control Agency has announced the commencement of its statewide free HIV testing services.

The Lagos State AIDS Control Agency has announced the commencement of its statewide free HIV testing services, scheduled to run across all Local Government Areas and Local Council Development Areas from 18th November to 1st December 2025.

The initiative forms a major part of activities marking the 2025 World AIDS Day, aligning with LSACA’s ongoing commitment to expand access to HIV testing, enhance early diagnosis, and strengthen linkage to care for residents across the state.

LSACA on its X handle on Tuesday, said the statewide exercise is designed to close existing testing gaps while deepening community awareness on HIV prevention, management, and stigma reduction. Trained counsellor-testers, adequate testing kits, condoms, and Information, Education, and Communication materials have been deployed to ensure smooth implementation across all communities.

Speaking ahead of the rollout, LSACA’s Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Folakemi Animashaun, emphasised the importance of early testing in achieving the state’s public health goals.

“As we approach the 2025 World AIDS Day, our priority is to ensure that every resident of Lagos has the opportunity to know their HIV status in a safe, confidential, and accessible manner,” she said. “Testing remains the gateway to prevention and treatment, and this statewide exercise underscores our commitment to safeguarding the health and well-being of all Lagosians.”

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Animashaun noted that LSACA is working closely with development partners and community-based organisations to reach even the most underserved communities. She encouraged residents to visit designated testing points in their LGAs and LCDAs to access free, confidential services.

Reaffirming the Lagos State Government’s dedication to improving healthcare access, the LSACA CEO highlighted ongoing efforts to expand HIV testing and counselling centres and intensify statewide awareness campaigns. These efforts aim to prevent new infections and ensure residents have access to essential prevention, testing, and treatment resources.

The agency urged all Lagos residents to take advantage of the free screening exercise, stressing that knowing one’s status is a vital step toward achieving an HIV-free generation.

LSACA is the coordinating body responsible for implementing HIV/AIDS prevention, treatment, and care programmes across Lagos State. It was established to strengthen the state’s response to the HIV epidemic. The Agency works in collaboration with government ministries, development partners, civil society organisations, and community structures to reduce new infections and improve the quality of life for people living with HIV.