….Restates Commitment to the fight against virus
Lagos State Government through the AIDS Control Agency has commenced a Free HIV Screening and Counselling services for exhibitors and attendees of the Y2024 Trade fair at the Tarawa Balewa Square, Lagos.
The Y2024 Trade fair which was officially declared open by the Deputy Governor, Dr Kadiri Obafemi Hamzat has been scheduled to hold between 1st to 10th of November, 2024 attracted exhibitors from within and outside the country.
Dr Hamzat who inspected the stand of the Lagos State AIDS Control Agency at the Lagos pavilion commended the dedication of the agency in the fight against the spread of HIV in the state. He emphasized the commitment of the state government in the provisions of a sustainable healthcare delivery for it’s residents as the state recognizes the significance of maintaining good health for greater productivity.
The Deputy Governor however urged all participants to take advantage of the free screening to know their HIV status so as to seek medical care early enough when necessary. He however encouraged all to adopt a good health seeking behavior for the maintenance of a healthy lifestyle.
Chief Executive Officer, Lagos State AIDS Control Agency, Dr Folakemi Animashaun, in a press interview explained that the free HIV screening initiative is part of efforts to promote public health, offering convenient access to HIV testing and support services in the state adding that the state remains committed to improving access to health care services adding that the free screening and Counselling exercise will run through the entire duration of the trade fair.
Dr Animashaun explained further that
the Lagos State AIDS Control Agency (LSACA) has been instrumental in coordinating HIV/AIDS control programs in the state adding that the state has intensified efforts in upscaling its Anti-Retroviral Therapy (ART) Programs, Public Awareness and Sensitization programs, Free HIV Testing and Counseling, Community Outreach Programs,Youth-Focused Programs and has also invested in research and data collection for a better understanding of the trends and demographics of HIV/AIDS in the state.
Animashaun explained further that the screening exercise will provide valuable resources and support for attendees and exhibitors regarding HIV awareness and prevention adding that the exercise will not only raises awareness about HIV but also encourage responsible practices to reduce community transmission of the virus.
She emphasized the state’s unwavering commitment to improving access to healthcare services highlighting the importance of increased awareness campaigns and the expansion of HIV testing and counseling centers across the state as the state is dedicated to curbing the spread of the virus and ensuring that all residents have access to the necessary resources for prevention, testing, and treatment.
While encouraging all participants of the Trade fair to take advantage of the free screening exercise, the Chief Executive officer advised all residents to take responsibility for their health and well-being as getting tested for HIV is a crucial step in maintaining a healthy and productive life
“We must all take responsibility for our health and well-being, and getting tested for HIV is a crucial step in maintaining a healthy and productive life. I urge everyone to take advantage of this opportunity and prioritize their health. I like to take this opportunity to encourage all participants to take advantage of the free screening exercise being offered”. She Said.
She however assured that the present administration will not relent in putting in place strategies geared toward the provision of a sustainable health care system system which aligns with the THEMES PLUS AGENDA.