The Lagos State Government has commenced free and confidential HIV testing and counselling services for public servants, exhibitors and visitors attending the ongoing 2026 International Trade Fair.
The exercise, which started on Friday, November 6, will run until November 15, allowing traders, exhibitors and other participants to access the services within the fairgrounds.
The intervention is being coordinated by the Lagos State AIDS Control Agency, which has deployed health workers to conduct HIV screenings, provide counselling and refer individuals who test positive to designated treatment facilities.
The Chief Executive Officer of LSACA, Dr Folakemi Animashaun, said the initiative reflected the state government’s commitment to expanding access to HIV prevention, testing and treatment services while ensuring confidentiality.
Animashaun stressed that knowing one’s HIV status was essential to preventing new infections, promoting early intervention and improving health outcomes.
She urged public servants, trade fair participants and other residents to make HIV testing a routine part of their healthcare rather than waiting until they suspected an infection.
The agency said its teams at the screening points were also providing information on HIV prevention, as well as guidance on accessing treatment and other essential care services.
LSACA encouraged residents and trade fair participants to visit its screening point at the Lagos Pavilion, Tafawa Balewa Square, before the exhibition ends on November 15.
It added that free HIV testing, counselling and other essential services remained available at designated health facilities across Lagos State.
