LAGOS INTENSIFIES HIV PREVENTION EFFORTS WITH INCLUSIVE OUTREACH TO HEARING, VISUALLY IMPAIRED PERSONS
In a determined move to promote inclusive healthcare and curb the spread and stigma associated with HIV and AIDS, the Lagos State Government, through the Lagos State AIDS Control Agency (LSACA), has organised a two-day sensitisation campaign specifically targeted at persons with hearing and visual impairments.
The sensitisation outreach, which was held from July 22 to 23, 2025, at the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI), Alausa-Ikeja, underscores LSACA’s commitment to adopting inclusive strategies in HIV prevention, public awareness, and stigma reduction among vulnerable and often overlooked populations.
Speaking at the opening ceremony, the Chief Executive Officer of LSACA, Dr. Folakemi Animashaun reaffirmed the Lagos State Government’s dedication to ensuring that no one is left behind in the management and control of HIV and AIDS in the state.
“Inclusion is not an act of charity; it is an act of justice,” Dr. Animashaun stated, commending the administration of Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu for its unwavering commitment to equity and social justice under the THEMES Plus development agenda.
She further emphasised that people with disabilities, particularly the hearing and visually impaired, often face systemic barriers in accessing health information and services, increasing their risk of HIV infection and exposure to stigma.
Dr. Animashaun explained that the outreach was thoughtfully designed to educate participants on practical HIV prevention methods, address stigma and discrimination, and ensure that HIV-related messaging is fully accessible to those with hearing and visual impairments
“This programme is not just about sharing information,” she said. “It is about empowering a community to become active participants and advocates in the HIV response. We are committed to achieving zero new infections, zero discrimination, and zero AIDS-related deaths in Lagos State. Reaching people with disabilities is essential to this goal”, she said.
Reiterating the inclusive governance approach of the present administration, Dr. Animashaun revealed that the state government has translated key Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) materials into braille and has provided sign language interpreters to ensure effective dissemination of vital HIV prevention and management information.
She concluded by assuring the public that LSACA remains resolute in its mission to expand access to life-saving HIV services, strengthen health systems, and ensure that no individual or community is left behind in the state’s ongoing HIV and AIDS response.
More photos below.
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