By Ikugbadi Oluwasegun
The Lagos State Government, through the Lagos State AIDS Control Agency (LSACA) has announced its readiness to chart a new course for HIV response in Nigeria as it prepares to host the 7th National Council on AIDS amid dwindling partner support.
A statement signed by Dr. Folakemi Animashaun, Chief Executive Officer of LSACA disclosed that the 7th National Council on AIDS (NCA) is scheduled to take place from August 5th to 7th at the Landmark Event Centre, Victoria Island.
Dr. Animashaun further explained that the National Council on AIDS, a pivotal event convened in collaboration with the National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA), will bring together key stakeholders in Nigeria’s HIV response architecture to deliberate on innovative strategies, review national progress, and set the agenda for a more resilient and integrated HIV response.
The event, themed “Advancing National HIV Sustainability Agenda in the Changing Global Policy on Aid,” is timely and strategic, emphasising the need for stakeholders to proactively respond to evolving global health priorities while maintaining the momentum of the national HIV response.
Dr. Animashaun outlined several key initiatives planned for the gathering, which will convene stakeholders from across the 36 states of the Federation and the FCT to exchange best practices, present research findings, and align efforts towards effective management and control of HIV and AIDS in the country.
Speaking on the significance of the event, the CEO affirmed that Lagos is not only prepared to host the Council but is committed to leveraging the platform to chart a new course in the management and control of HIV and AIDS, particularly in an era marked by competing health priorities and dwindling donor resources.
“The 7th National Council on AIDS presents a unique opportunity for Lagos and the entire country to recalibrate our strategies, foster stronger partnerships, and adopt more sustainable, people-centred approaches to ending the HIV epidemic. As the epicentre of innovation and development in Nigeria, Lagos is proud to lead these critical conversations,” Dr. Animashaun said.
The CEO noted the challenges of competing health priorities and dwindling donor support, asserting that the 7th National Council on AIDS presents a crucial opportunity for Lagos and Nigeria to assess strategies, foster stronger partnerships, and adopt sustainable, people-centred approaches to end the HIV epidemic.
She commended the Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, for his unwavering commitment to the successful organisation of the event and his exceptional visionary leadership, which sets Lagos as a benchmark for public health innovation in the country.
She highlighted the significant role the Governor plays in mobilising resources and support for health initiatives, which are crucial in addressing the HIV epidemic.
While calling on all Nigerians to join in the management and control of HIV in the State, Animashaun stressed that everyone has a role to play in creating a healthier and more equitable society.
She assured that the 7th National Council on AIDS will set the stage for a renewed commitment to eradicating HIV and AIDS and improving the lives of those infected and affected across the nation.
