Lagos debunks HIV figures, unveils direct ARV procurement

The Lagos State Government on Thursday dismissed widespread reports that the state recorded 10,430 new HIV infections in 2025, clarifying that the figure represents newly diagnosed cases and not fresh infections, even as it announced a historic move to directly procure antiretroviral drugs, becoming the first sub-national government in Nigeria to do so.

Addressing journalists at the Bagauda Kaltho Press Centre in Lagos, Chief Executive Officer of the Lagos State AIDS Control Agency, Dr. Folakemi Animashaun, said the reports had been widely misinterpreted and risked creating unnecessary panic among residents.

According to her, the 10,430 figure being circulated in the media reflects persons who tested positive within the reporting period, many of whom may have contracted the virus years earlier but only recently came forward for testing.

“Stronger surveillance systems and wider access to healthcare services invariably result in higher case detection and should not be misconstrued as evidence of worsening epidemic control,” she added.

She further revealed that 147,904 persons are currently receiving antiretroviral treatment in Lagos, with 97 percent achieving viral suppression, one of the strongest HIV treatment outcomes in Nigeria. 

In a major policy shift aimed at strengthening sustainability, the LSACA boss announced that Lagos has commenced direct procurement of antiretroviral medicines to ensure uninterrupted access to treatment.

“This marks a historic milestone, making Lagos State the first sub-national government in Nigeria to independently procure antiretroviral medicines for people living with HIV,” she said.

Animashaun noted that the move was designed to reduce dependence on donor funding and secure long-term HIV commodity supply in the face of changing global health financing realities.

“There is no cause for panic. Know your HIV status, rely on verified public health information, and reject every form of stigma and discrimination,” she said.