Lagos Raises Alarm as 160,000 Residents

Lagos Raises Alarm as 160,000 Residents Live With HIV: What This Means for Public Health

As the world marked World AIDS Day 2025, the Lagos State Government delivered a crucial update on the state of HIV in the city, revealing that an estimated 160,000 residents are currently living with the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV). The announcement was made by the Lagos State AIDS Control Agency (LSACA) during its annual press briefing held on Thursday.

This figure underscores both the progress and challenges Lagos continues to face in its fight against HIV/AIDS. While significant strides have been made in awareness, testing, and treatment accessibility, the number shows that the virus remains a major public-health concern requiring sustained attention and action.

According to LSACA, Lagos — as Nigeria’s most populous and economically active state — naturally faces a higher disease burden. Rapid urbanisation, population density, lifestyle factors, and limited health-seeking behaviours contribute to the continued spread of HIV. However, the agency emphasized that the state has also made notable progress in reducing new infections and improving access to antiretroviral therapy.

The 2025 theme, “Ending AIDS: A Shared Responsibility,” highlights the need for collaboration between government, communities, healthcare workers, NGOs, and individuals. LSACA used the platform to encourage Lagosians to embrace regular testing, practice safe behaviours, and support people living with HIV without stigma.

The agency also reiterated that HIV is no longer a death sentence. With early detection and proper treatment, individuals can live long, healthy, and productive lives. Lagos State is expanding its testing centres, awareness campaigns, and youth-focused education programmes across secondary schools, tertiary institutions, markets, workplaces, and entertainment hubs.

As Lagos continues to push toward the global 95-95-95 targets — ensuring more residents know their status, receive treatment, and achieve viral suppression — the state reminds everyone that the fight against HIV is a shared journey. With collective effort, compassion, and continued health investment, Lagos can move closer to an AIDS-free generation.