The Lagos State Government has released new data showing that an estimated 160,000 residents currently live with HIV in the state. The figure covers activities recorded between January and September 2025.
The disclosure came during the World AIDS Day 2025 press briefing held on Thursday in Alausa, Ikeja. The event was organised by the Lagos State AIDS Control Agency, LSACA.
LSACA’s Chief Executive Officer, Dr Folakemi Animashaun, presented the state’s performance report at the briefing. She stated that 147,466 residents are already receiving antiretroviral treatment across public health facilities in Lagos.
She praised Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for sustaining strong political support for the state’s HIV response. She noted that government commitment has boosted community engagement and service delivery.
Animashaun said the 2025 theme, “Overcoming Disruptions: Sustaining Nigeria’s HIV Response,” fits the current situation in Lagos. She explained that the state faced major setbacks after a Stop Work Order from the United States Government earlier this year.
She recalled the termination of the U.S. partnership with UNAIDS in March. The action followed President Donald Trump’s January Executive Order on foreign aid review. She said the freeze affected community outreach and slowed vital HIV services.
According to her, the disruptions reduced the state’s testing capacity. Lagos conducted 222,415 HIV tests during the period. She noted that the figure represents only 28.9 percent of last year’s testing volume.
She said the steep drop exposed the vulnerability of community-based interventions. She stressed the need for early testing and consistent public awareness.
Despite the challenges, she commended local organisations for adapting quickly and restoring services. She credited them with helping the state recover lost progress.
Animashaun also gave updates on the Statewide Community HIV Testing Campaign, which began on November 18. She reported that 9,943 residents have been tested so far. She confirmed a 2.0 percent positivity rate from those screenings. She added that all positive cases were linked to care.
She said women recorded the highest turnout in several areas. She listed Ikorodu, Badagry, Ojo, and Mushin as the most responsive locations. She linked the success to targeted market outreaches and community mobilisation.
She warned that HIV remains a serious public health concern in Lagos. She urged residents to stay alert and adopt safe practices.
Animashaun also outlined activities planned for the World AIDS Day observance. The programme includes an awareness walk, a symposium, religious outreach, and a novelty football match.
She appealed for collective action. She said Lagos can achieve stronger results through shared responsibility and steady community participation.