Lagos State Health Commissioner, Prof. Akin Abayomi, has revealed that over 135,000 residents are currently living with HIV, underscoring the significant public health challenge facing the state. Speaking at a briefing to mark Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s second term anniversary, Abayomi outlined ongoing efforts to combat the disease, including a partnership with over 100 religious leaders aimed at fighting stigma and encouraging HIV testing and treatment.
In addition to HIV, Abayomi highlighted the state's achievements in other areas of health. Lagos has screened over 154,000 women for cervical cancer, treated 8,600 of them, and conducted nearly 313,000 screenings for hypertension and diabetes. The commissioner noted that the state’s obesity rate is 12%, and 6% of residents are living with diabetes, half of whom are unaware of their condition.
Addressing the state’s healthcare workforce shortage, Abayomi revealed that Lagos is facing a deficit of 33,000 doctors and nurses. To bridge this gap, the Lagos State University of Medicine and Health has committed to producing 2,500 healthcare professionals annually over the next five years.
Despite these efforts, only 4.17% of residents are currently enrolled in the state’s health insurance scheme. However, the commissioner expressed optimism that the new mandatory health insurance law would significantly increase enrollment.
Abayomi also announced that major health infrastructure projects, including the New Massey Street Children’s Hospital and the Epe Mental Health Institute, are nearing completion and are expected to be commissioned by April 2026.