Lagos State has recorded a sharp decline in HIV testing, with only 222,415 tests conducted, representing 28.9 per cent of last year’s total, as disruptions from a U.S. foreign aid freeze continue to impact critical health interventions.
Dr. Animashaun, a state health official, attributed the drop to the 90-day suspension of U.S. foreign aid, enacted under President Donald Trump’s January Executive Order “Reevaluating and Realigning U.S. Foreign Aid”.
The order temporarily halted funding for health programmes, including HIV testing and counselling across the state.
“These pauses in community activities slowed essential interventions, limiting access to testing, counselling, and psychosocial support,” Animashaun said, warning that the most vulnerable populations felt the effects most acutely.
Despite the setback, the Statewide Community HIV Testing Campaign, launched on November 18, has so far tested 9,943 residents, with a 2.0 per cent positivity rate.
All positive cases have been promptly linked to care, demonstrating ongoing efforts to mitigate the impact of the funding gap.
Data shows that women are leading participation, particularly in Ikorodu, Badagry, Ojo, and Mushin, reflecting the effectiveness of market-based and community-cluster testing strategies.
Positive cases have been identified across multiple local government areas, underscoring that HIV remains a persistent public health concern in Lagos.
Animashaun highlighted that the decline in testing underscores the critical need for sustained engagement, early detection, and strong community support, even as community groups work tirelessly to restore services.
In addition to testing, the state has stepped up anti-stigma campaigns and lined up activities for World AIDS Day, including a Jumat service, novelty football match, church outreach, awareness walks, and a stakeholder symposium.
“The data reinforces that we cannot let HIV gains slip. Collective action remains key to sustaining the response for a healthier, stronger Lagos,” Animashaun conclude
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