LAGOS
By Ab Susan
The Lagos State AIDS Control Agency kicked off a statewide free HIV testing drive on November 18, running right through to December 1, as part of the 2025 World AIDS Day celebrations. From the bustling streets of Lagos Island to the quieter neighborhoods in the outskirts, testing booths have popped up in every Local Government Area and Local Council Development Area, offering confidential, non‑judgmental services to anyone who walks in. Dr. Folakemi Animashaun, the agency’s CEO, emphasized that the campaign is all about giving every Lagos resident the chance to know their status in a safe and accessible way, and she urged people to take advantage of the free kits, counseling, and condoms being handed out at the designated points ¹.
What makes this effort especially noteworthy is the breadth of the rollout. Trained counsellor‑testers, enough testing kits, and stacks of information, education, and communication materials have been deployed across the state, ensuring that even the most remote communities can participate. The agency isn’t stopping at just testing; they’re also linking anyone who tests positive to treatment and care services, and they’ve set up a hotline and social‑media handles so residents can get more details or ask questions without feeling exposed ². If you’re curious, you can reach them on Instagram @lsaca_ng, Twitter @lsaca_ng, or via WhatsApp at +234 902 248 1384.
The timing of the campaign ties into a broader public‑health push in Lagos. Earlier this year, the state health commissioner revealed that more than 135,000 Lagosians are living with HIV, a figure that underscores the urgency of early detection and stigma reduction. By involving over a hundred religious leaders as HIV ambassadors, the government hopes to chip away at the discrimination that often stops people from getting tested. The message is clear: knowing your status is the first step toward protecting yourself and the community.
Beyond the numbers, the initiative has already shown a lively, community‑driven side. At the recent Lagos International Trade Fair, over 700 exhibitors and visitors took the opportunity to get tested, and many left with a sense of empowerment, saying the process was quick, confidential, and reassuring. Stories like that of Mrs. Funmilayo Olusegun, who appreciated the convenience of a free test right at the fair, illustrate how these outreach events can turn a routine check‑up into a conversation starter about health and responsibility.
All in all, the free HIV testing campaign is shaping up to be one of the most comprehensive public‑health drives Lagos has seen in recent years. With its blend of widespread access, community engagement, and a strong focus on linking people to care, the effort not only aims to close the testing gap but also to foster a culture where knowing your status is just another part of everyday wellness. So, if you’re in Lagos, swing by your nearest testing point—your health, and the health of those around you, will thank you.
