The Lagos State Government, through the Lagos State AIDS Control Agency (LSACA), has joined the world to commemorate the 2024 World AIDS Day themed: “Putting People First, Take the Rights in Path, Sustain the HIV Response and Stop HIV among Children to end AIDS by 2030”.
In his keynote address, the Executive Governor of Lagos State Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu represented by the Commissioner for Health Prof. Akin Abayomi, said 2024 World AIDS Day is an occasion that reinforces our shared resolve to combat the HIV/AIDS epidemic.
Sanwo-Olu said the theme for this year captures the core of shared responsibility, which is prioritising the humanity and dignity of all individuals in our healthcare approach. It underscores our collective hope, unity, and determination as a community to eradicate the scourge of HIV/AIDS.
According to him, “Lagos State has long been a trailblazer in the fight against HIV/AIDS, demonstrating leadership through progressive policies, innovative strategies, and substantial investments in healthcare. While we are proud of our achievements, we are ever mindful that there is still much to be done”.
“To advance our fight against HIV/AIDS, we have outlined a set of clear goals that embody our commitment to creating a healthier and more inclusive Lagos. First, we ensure that healthcare services, including HIV testing, antiretroviral therapy, and counselling, are accessible and affordable across all Local Government Areas. Our vision is bold yet achievable: zero new infections, zero discrimination, and zero AIDS-related deaths”, Sanwo-Olu said.
In her remarks, the First Lady of Lagos State, Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, represented by the Wife of the Head of Service, Mrs. Oyinlola Agoro, said ending HIV by 2030 is a challenge to prioritise the needs, dignity and rights of every individual affected by HIV.
The Lagos First Lady said that the initiatives to Prevent Mother-To-Child Transmission (PMTCT) and address the intersection of HIV and gender-based violence underscore Lagos’s commitment to safeguarding the most vulnerable members of society.
In his goodwill message, the Chief of Staff (COS) to the Governor of Lagos State Mr. Tayo Ayinde said the commemoration symposium is to unite in purpose to confront the HIV epidemic and, most importantly, protect the health and future of our children as the gathering is a testament to our crucial role in this collective journey toward the eradication of HIV and AIDS in Lagos State and beyond.
He added that under Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s dynamic and visionary leadership, Lagos State would continue to set the pace in health sector innovation and reform. He stressed that Mr. Governor’s unwavering commitment to prioritising the health and well-being of every Lagosian, especially vulnerable children, is the cornerstone of progress in addressing the HIV epidemic.
The Head of Service(HOS), Mr. Bode Agoro, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Youth and Social Development, Pharm. Toyin Oke Osanyintolu, said the celebration’s theme highlights the need for sustained focus on equity, inclusion, and the protection of society’s most vulnerable.
Earlier, in her welcome speech, the CEO of Lagos State AIDS Control Agency (LSACA), Dr. Folakemi Animashaun, said the gathering represents our unwavering commitment to building a future free of HIV, where every child is safeguarded, and every individual is empowered to live with dignity and hope. The gathering unites under the banner of action, innovation, and collaboration as we take deliberate steps toward achieving the global goal of ending AIDS by 2030.