The Lagos State AIDS Control Agency (LSACA) has urged workers across the state to prioritise regular HIV testing and reject stigma, warning that poor health continues to undermine productivity and economic stability.
Speaking at the 2026 Workers’ Day celebration held at Onikan Stadium, the Chief Executive Officer of LSACA, Dr. Folakemi Animashaun, described workers as “the engine of Lagos” and commended their resilience and contribution to the state’s growth.
Animashaun said the theme of this year’s celebration, “Insecurity, Poverty – Bane of Decent Work,” underscores the need to tackle public health challenges such as HIV, which she noted are closely tied to broader socio-economic conditions.
She called on workers to take personal responsibility for their health by embracing preventive practices, supporting awareness campaigns and accessing available care, while also urging employers to create inclusive workplaces that support the wellbeing of staff.
During an inspection of LSACA’s free HIV testing and counselling stand at the event, the CEO disclosed that more than 600 workers benefited from the exercise, describing it as part of ongoing efforts by the Lagos State Government to promote a healthy and productive workforce.
Animashaun warned that stigma, fear and silence remain major barriers in the fight against HIV, discouraging many people from getting tested or seeking treatment.
“You cannot have decent work without good health. When a worker is not healthy, productivity drops, income is affected, and poverty increases,” she said.
She added that eliminating discrimination in workplaces and communities would encourage more people to know their status and access care, ultimately strengthening the workforce.
Reaffirming LSACA’s alignment with the state government’s THEMES+ development agenda, Animashaun said the agency is expanding access to HIV prevention, testing and treatment services across communities and workplaces.
She encouraged residents to take advantage of free, safe and confidential testing services, noting that the process takes only a few minutes but could be life-saving.
LSACA also advised residents to access services at government health facilities or through its toll-free lines, 080000060600 and 0900000LSACA, as well as its social media platforms for further information and support.