BY JIMOH AKEEM BOLAJI
The Chief Executive Officer of the Lagos State AIDS Control Agency (LSACA), Dr. Folakemi Animashaun, has urged traditional rulers across Lagos State to take a frontline role in the fight against HIV, emphasising that the epidemic is not only a health issue but also a community concern.
Dr. Anima Shaun, who made the call during the monthly meeting of traditional leaders organised by the Ministry of Local Government and Community Affairs, highlighted the urgency of collective leadership in tackling the spread of HIV in Lagos communities.
According to her, over 160,000 people are currently living with HIV in the state, 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 although HIV is no longer a death sentence due to the availability of free testing and treatment services, who pointed out that challenges such as stigma, silence, and misinformation continue to undermine efforts at curbing its spread. The CEO further stressed the vital role of the traditional institution as a powerful force in shaping public attitudes and behaviour.
Dr. Animashaun, therefore, urged royal fathers to leverage their palaces, cultural festivals, and community gatherings to promote HIV awareness, encourage voluntary testing, and challenge stigma. She also disclosed that LSACA will extend free testing and counselling services to various communities across the state to ensure accessibility.
Reaffirming the state government’s commitment to sustaining HIV programmes, Dr. Animashaun maintained that traditional leaders remain the 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 stated.