…hosts 7th Council On AIDS, To Strengthen Response Strategy
The Lagos State Government, through the Lagos State AIDS Control Agency (LSACA), has reaffirmed its leadership and unwavering commitment to the national HIV response as it prepares to host the 7th National Council on AIDS (NCA).
A statement signed by the Chief Executive Officer of LSACA, Dr. Folakemi Animashaun stated that the high-level council meeting will take place from August 5 to 7, 2025, at the Landmark Event Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos.
The three-day gathering is set to convene key stakeholders across Nigeria’s HIV and AIDS ecosystem, including representatives of federal and state health ministries, development partners, civil society organisations, and grassroots community groups.
Dr. Animashaun disclosed that the event will be officially declared open by the First Lady of Lagos State, Dr. (Mrs.) Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, on August 5, while the Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, will deliver the closing address on August 7. A Gala Night will also be held to honour outstanding contributions and celebrate collective progress in the national HIV response.
“This Council comes at a pivotal time,” Dr. Animashaun said. “With global donor support declining, now more than ever, we must adopt sustainable, homegrown strategies to protect the gains we have made and accelerate progress towards ending AIDS by 2030.”
She emphasised that Lagos is proud to host the Council, which will serve as a platform to review progress, address emerging challenges, and chart strategic pathways for a strengthened HIV response across the country.
She reaffirmed the state’s commitment to inclusivity and progress in health initiatives. “Lagos remains at the forefront of transformative HIV policy and programming. Hosting the 7th National Council on AIDS is both a privilege and a clear demonstration of our continued resolve to lead and leave no one behind,” she added.
Animashaun, therefore, called on all stakeholders, both in the public and private sectors, to participate actively in the Council and contribute to shaping a sustainable, inclusive, and impactful future for the HIV and AIDS response in Nigeria.