Reported by: Ijeoma G | Edited by: Henry Owen
The Lagos State AIDS Control Agency (LSACA), led by its Chief Executive Officer, Dr. Folakemi Animashaun, has paid a courtesy visit to the Lagos State Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation (WAPA) to strengthen collaboration in raising awareness on HIV prevention, reducing stigma, and empowering persons living with HIV/AIDS.
The visit, held at the Ministry’s Conference Room in Alausa, provided a platform for both institutions to explore joint initiatives that promote inclusive public health and social development across the State.
In her remarks, Dr. Animashaun reiterated LSACA’s commitment to preventive health education and social inclusion, emphasizing that HIV transmission can occur through unscreened blood transfusions, use of unsterilized needles, and unprotected sexual intercourse. She called for sustained public enlightenment to dispel myths, encourage voluntary testing, and ensure early detection.
She also appealed to WAPA to integrate persons living with HIV into its empowerment and vocational training programmes, while supporting LSACA with screening kits for community-level testing. Dr. Animashaun further advocated for stronger campaigns against stigma and discrimination, describing them as major barriers to effective HIV response and reintegration.
Responding, the Honourable Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Mrs. Bolaji Cecilia Dada, commended LSACA for its consistent efforts in promoting public health and preventive awareness across Lagos. She revealed that the Ministry has empowered over 200 persons living with HIV through vocational training and support programmes at LASUTH, Mushin, and Ibeju-Lekki, in line with the State Government’s inclusive social protection agenda.
Mrs. Dada assured LSACA of continued partnership in intensifying advocacy, awareness, and empowerment for people affected by HIV/AIDS, reaffirming WAPA’s commitment to advancing Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu’s vision of an inclusive and compassionate Lagos.
Also present at the meeting were the Permanent Secretary, Mrs. Rianat Ajibike Onigbanjo, and Directors of the Ministry, who expressed readiness to support inter-agency partnerships aimed at enhancing public health, reducing poverty, and empowering vulnerable groups across the State.
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