Sanwo-Olu pledges sustainable healthcare as 1,323 get free HIV screening

Lagos State Governor, Mr Babajide Sanwo-Olu, on Sunday, said that his administration is committed to providing sustainable healthcare delivery for its residents, as the state recognizes the significance of maintaining good health for greater productivity.

Sanwo-Olu, therefore, encouraged all residents to adopt good health-seeking behaviour for the maintenance of a healthy lifestyle.

The governor stated this during an inspection visit to the screening booth of the Lagos State AIDS Control Agency at the Lagos Pavilion of the 2024 trade fair.

During the inspection, Sanwo-Olu commended the dedication of the Lagos State AIDS Control Agency in the fight against the spread of HIV in the state.

However, no fewer than 1,323 exhibitors and participants benefited from the free HIV screening and counselling services provided by the Lagos State AIDS Control Agency as part of the activities of the 2024 Trade Fair, which ended yesterday at the Tafawa Balewa Square, Lagos.

The Chief Executive Officer of the Lagos State AIDS Control Agency, Dr Folakemi Animashaun, explained that the free screening exercise was aimed at creating awareness and providing preventative support to attendees and exhibitors at the event, as free HIV screening and counselling services are one of the strategies deployed by the agency in reaching members of the community.

She explained further that the trade fair, which was officially declared closed by Sanwo-Olu, attracted a diverse group of individuals, including entrepreneurs, business owners, and visitors, all of whom were eager to learn more about HIV and its impact on public health.

Animashaun commended the high turnout for screenings, emphasising that HIV testing is essential for a healthy and productive life, stressing that the positive response from participants reflects a growing commitment to health and preventative measures in the fight against HIV.

“The positive response from participants reflects a growing commitment to health and preventative measures in the fight against HIV, as the free screening initiative not only serves to increase awareness about HIV but also fosters responsible practices within the community to reduce the risk of transmission,” she said.

Animashaun assured that the Lagos State AIDS Control Agency will continue such initiatives in future events to promote health awareness and reduce the stigma associated with HIV testing, adding that residents should take proactive steps towards taking care of their health.

Underscoring the significance of HIV testing for maintaining a healthy and productive life, the Chief Executive Officer said that the state is focused on improving access to healthcare services, increasing awareness campaigns, and has also expanded the availability of HIV testing and counselling centres across the state to curb the spread of the virus.

She, however, commended the organisers of the trade fair for a successful event, which allowed greater community engagement and awareness, as the trade fair served as a successful venue for not only showcasing businesses but also for promoting health and wellness in the state.