The Chief Executive Officer of the Lagos State AIDS Control Agency (LSACA), Dr. Folakemi Animashaun, has called on traditional rulers across the state to take the lead in the fight against HIV, stressing that the epidemic is not just a health challenge but a community concern.
Dr. Animashaun made the appeal during the monthly meeting of traditional leaders organised by the Ministry of Local Government and Community Affairs, where she underscored the urgency of collective action in curbing the spread of the virus.
According to her, over 160,000 people are currently living with HIV in Lagos, with thousands of new infections recorded annually—particularly among young people and women.
“Every new HIV case affects more than the individual. It disrupts families, weakens communities, and threatens our heritage,” she said.
While noting that HIV is no longer a death sentence due to the availability of free testing and treatment services, she lamented that stigma, misinformation, and silence continue to undermine progress.
She emphasised the role of traditional institutions as powerful agents of influence in shaping public attitudes and behaviour. Dr. Animashaun urged royal fathers to use their palaces, cultural festivals, and community gatherings to promote awareness, encourage voluntary testing, and challenge discrimination.
She further disclosed that LSACA will extend free testing and counselling services to communities across the state to increase accessibility.
Reaffirming the state government’s commitment to sustaining HIV programmes, the LSACA boss described traditional rulers as “true catalysts for change.”
“The government has medicines, programmes, and resources. But only you, our Royal Fathers, have the hearts and ears of the people. Together, we can protect our heritage, our families, and our future generations,” she declared.