LASG Advances Legal Review To Strengthen Protection For People Living With HIV, AIDS

The Lagos State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the rights and welfare of people living with HIV and AIDS, as key stakeholders convened for a high-level engagement at the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI). The strategic session, organised by the Lagos State AIDS Control Agency (LSACA), focused on reviewing and updating the Lagos State Law for the Protection of People Living with HIV & AIDS to reflect current realities and societal changes since its initial passage in 2007.

Speaking at the event, the Chief Executive Officer of LSACA, Dr. Folakemi Animashaun, described the engagement as a pivotal moment in Lagos State’s efforts to uphold human dignity, eliminate stigma and discrimination, and strengthen the legal protections of people living with HIV. She commended Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu for his unwavering commitment to inclusive governance and human-centred policies, noting that Lagos has continued to lead nationally through innovative programmes, community engagement, and evidence-based approaches to HIV prevention and care.

Lagos has remained a beacon of innovation and compassion in Nigeria’s HIV response,” Dr. Animashaun stated. “We set a national precedent in 2007 by passing a law to protect the rights of people living with HIV. But almost two decades later, societal realities have evolved from the rise of social media to persistent stigma and our laws must evolve too.” She emphasized the need to modernize the legislation to ensure that it adequately addresses today’s complex social and digital challenges.

Dr. Animashaun also highlighted the growing intersection between HIV, gender-based violence (GBV), and human rights, explaining that while guidelines have been introduced to address these issues, they are yet to be codified into law. She expressed concern over the increasing cases of domestic, sexual, and workplace violence against people living with HIV, stressing the urgency for stronger legal frameworks to ensure protection and justice.

Legal Consultant for the review process, Barr. Josephine Ijekhwene, commended the diversity of representation at the meeting, which included government agencies, civil society organizations, PLHIV networks, development partners, and legal experts. She urged participants to approach the review process with empathy, courage, and evidence-based insight, encouraging them to “think boldly and compassionately” as Lagos continues to champion progressive and inclusive leadership.