By HeapNews
In a determined push for public health and wellness, the Lagos State Government, through its AIDS Control Agency (LSACA), is providing free HIV screening and counseling services to attendees and exhibitors at the 2024 Lagos International Trade Fair. Running from November 1 to 10 at Tafawa Balewa Square, the fair draws both local and international exhibitors, offering a unique platform for health awareness.
The Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Dr. Kadiri Obafemi Hamzat, inaugurated the event and lauded LSACA’s dedication to reducing HIV transmission in the state. While inspecting LSACA’s stand at the Lagos Pavilion, Dr. Hamzat emphasized the state’s commitment to sustainable healthcare, remarking, “The health of our people is crucial for a productive society. I encourage everyone here to take advantage of the free HIV screening.”
Dr. Folakemi Animashaun, CEO of LSACA, detailed the initiative as part of the state’s ongoing efforts to make healthcare more accessible and to address public health challenges directly. “We aim to make HIV testing convenient and accessible, enabling early intervention for those who need it,” she said. The free screenings and counseling sessions will be available throughout the trade fair’s ten-day run.
The screening initiative reflects LSACA’s broader agenda, which includes Anti-Retroviral Therapy (ART) programs, youth-focused and community outreach efforts, public sensitization, and robust research initiatives aimed at understanding HIV trends and demographics across Lagos State. “This exercise not only provides free testing but also reinforces responsible health practices to curb HIV transmission within our communities,” Animashaun stated.
The agency’s outreach is closely aligned with Lagos State’s THEMES Plus Agenda, which supports expanded healthcare services across the state. With HIV testing centers and awareness programs on the rise, LSACA aims to create an environment where early testing is accessible and the stigma surrounding HIV is addressed through education and community engagement.
Animashaun called on fair attendees to take responsibility for their health, underscoring the importance of knowing one’s HIV status as an essential part of maintaining a healthy, productive life. “Getting tested is a crucial step in prioritizing your health and wellbeing. We are here to support that journey,” she encouraged.
This year’s trade fair showcases more than commerce; it emphasizes the importance of public health awareness, reaching thousands of participants and providing a supportive environment for health education.