The Lagos State Government says an estimated 160,000 residents are currently living with HIV, according to new data released ahead of World AIDS Day 2025.
The Lagos State AIDS Control Agency (LSACA) disclosed the figure during its annual press briefing on Thursday. Presenting the state’s progress report in Alausa, Ikeja, LSACA Chief Executive Officer, Dr Folakemi Animashaun, said the estimate covers January to September 2025.
“As of January to September 2025, Lagos State currently has an estimated 160,000 residents living with HIV, of whom 147,466 persons are on antiretroviral treatment,” she said.
Animashaun praised Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s leadership, noting that his administration’s support has strengthened health systems and community networks to sustain HIV prevention and treatment efforts.
She said this year’s theme, “Overcoming Disruptions: Sustaining Nigeria’s HIV Response,” reflects challenges witnessed in Lagos, particularly after the United States Government issued a Stop Work Order that disrupted community-level HIV interventions.
The disruptions followed the U.S. Government’s termination of its agreement with UNAIDS in March and an Executive Order issued earlier by President Donald Trump mandating a 90-day freeze on foreign aid.
According to Animashaun, the resulting pause in activities significantly slowed HIV testing, counselling, and psychosocial support, with vulnerable groups bearing the brunt.
During the reporting period, the state conducted 222,415 HIV tests—only 28.9 per cent of the previous year’s output—highlighting the scale of the setback.
Animashaun said the decline underscores the importance of sustained community engagement and early testing. Despite the disruptions, she commended community groups for quickly adapting and restoring services, helping the state regain momentum.
She added that the ongoing Statewide Community HIV Testing Campaign, launched on November 18, has so far tested 9,943 residents, yielding a 2.0 per cent positivity rate, with all positive cases linked to care. Women, especially in Ikorodu, Badagry, Ojo, and Mushin, have shown strong participation.
“Positive cases have been identified across multiple LGAs, confirming that HIV remains a disease of public health concern in the state,” she said.
Animashaun also highlighted intensified anti-stigma initiatives and outlined various activities scheduled for the World AIDS Day commemoration, including religious services, a novelty football match, an awareness walk, and a stakeholder symposium.
She called for collective action, saying, “Together, we can sustain the HIV response for a healthier, stronger Lagos.”