Lagos HIV Survey Highlights Treatment Success Amid Testing Deficits

Lagos State has made noteworthy progress in the fight against HIV, as evidenced by a recent survey revealing that 93.4% of individuals aware of their HIV status are receiving antiretroviral therapy (ART). However, the survey also underscores a critical testing gap, with only 58.3% of people living with HIV knowing their status, posing significant challenges to controlling the epidemic.

Presented at the dissemination event held at the Sheraton Hotel in Ikeja, the 2025–2026 Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) Impact Survey highlights a stark gender disparity in HIV prevalence. The data indicates that women aged 15 to 64 are affected at a rate of 1.6%, double that of men, who have a prevalence rate of 0.8%. This finding raises alarms about the need for targeted interventions to address the unique challenges faced by women in accessing testing and treatment.

Dr. Dayo Lajide, Permanent Secretary of the Lagos State Ministry of Health, emphasized the importance of the survey in shaping the state’s response to HIV. She described the findings as a critical tool for evidence-based decision-making and urged for intensified efforts in HIV testing and treatment access. “The results will help us assess progress made since the 2018 Nigeria HIV/AIDS Indicator and Impact Survey and work towards achieving the UNAIDS 95-95-95 targets,” she stated.

The survey estimates that approximately 192,911 individuals are living with HIV in Lagos, highlighting the urgency for enhanced funding and sustainable strategies to close existing gaps in HIV care. Health officials are calling for a concerted effort from stakeholders to ensure that all individuals living with HIV have access to testing and treatment, reinforcing the state’s commitment to combatting the epidemic effectively.