The Lagos State Government on Wednesday launched the Nigeria State-Level Antiretroviral Therapy (ART) Impact Survey (AIS), a household-based initiative aimed at measuring HIV treatment coverage and viral suppression in the state.
The three-month survey, which runs from October to December 2025, will cover 6,150 households across all 20 local government areas, targeting 11,354 residents aged 15–64 years.
Speaking at the flag-off, the Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Ministry of Health, Dr. Olusegun Ogboye, described the exercise as “a critical milestone in the fight against HIV/AIDS.” He explained that the AIS would help track progress, guide policies, and close treatment gaps.
“The survey has three core objectives: measuring the number of people living with HIV identified, the proportion on life-saving antiretroviral therapy, and the percentage who have achieved viral suppression. Viral suppression means the virus is so low in the blood that it cannot be transmitted to others,” Ogboye said.
He assured that interviews, counselling, and rapid tests would be confidential, with results provided immediately. “This is a scientific and representative exercise, not about marking homes with HIV. The aim is to reassess progress and improve resource allocation,” he added.
Lagos currently has about 135,225 people on HIV treatment, with 75 percent achieving viral suppression. Ogboye said the survey would update these figures as Lagos works toward the 2030 global goal of ending HIV as a public health threat.
The Director of Disease Control, Dr. Victoria Egunjobi, urged residents to welcome the teams and reject stigma. “Gone are the days when HIV was shrouded in silence. People living with HIV deserve dignity, respect, and access to care,” she said.
International and national partners pledged support. Dr. Ibrahim Dalhatu of U.S. CDC Nigeria reaffirmed America’s backing through PEPFAR, stressing that “this is not just about data but about people—families and communities who will benefit from the outcomes.”
Other stakeholders, including NASCP, APIN, NACA, and NCDC, hailed Lagos’ leadership, noting the survey’s potential to strengthen financing models and shape Nigeria’s HIV response.
Closing the event, Lagos State HIV/AIDS and STI Programme Coordinator, Dr. Oladipupo Fisher, thanked Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu and development partners, urging residents to cooperate with field teams.
“The success of this exercise depends on community acceptance. It brings HIV intervention to the doorsteps of Lagosians and directly contributes to saving lives,” he said.
Officials reiterated that the AIS would be vital in achieving an HIV-free Lagos by 2030.
