As part of its “No Gree for HIV” campaign, from February 9th to February 10th, 2024, The Nigerian Business Coalition Against AIDS (NiBUCAA) partnered Access Holdings Plc to provide free HIV Testing Services and counseling at the just concluded Access Bank Lagos City Marathon.

Over 10,000 persons were screened for HIV and equally received counseling across eight selected communities: Surulere, Ijora, Ajegunle, Igando, Lagos Island, Lekki Phase 1, Berger/Ojota, Apapa Road and the finish line of the Access Bank Lagos City Marathon- Eko Atlantic- all in Lagos State.

Screening activities led to the discovery of 14 new cases, while some patients were actively noted as receiving treatment and support. Additionally, 13,000 condoms and 5000 informational materials were distributed, further contributing to HIV prevention and safety efforts in the region.

Collaborations with the Lagos State AIDS Control Agency (LSACA), HIV Trust Fund of Nigeria (HTFN), Nigeria Youth Network on HIV/AIDS (NYNETHA), Association of Women Living with HIV/AIDS in Nigeria (ASWHAN), and Network of People Living with HIV and AIDS in Nigeria (NEPWHAN) expanded the campaign’s outreach, promoting HIV containment, vital practices for health management, and safe sex practices through the distribution of condoms and informational materials.

“We are always proud to partner with Access Holdings to drive HIV/AIDS awareness and testing across the country,” said Tosin Akinrinade, NiBUCAA’s Programs and Evaluation Officer. “Access Holdings remains at the forefront of integrating Sustainability; the delivery of social, economic, and environmental value in its business philosophy, and NiBUCAA is proud to be part of these efforts.”

Mr. Gbefun, a resident of Iponri community, was very excited to be a recipient of the free screening services, counseling, and condom distribution. “This is the first time I am being tested for HIV in the 45 years plus of my existence” he said, lauding the organizers, expressing gratitude for the opportunity to access such essential services within his own community.

NiBUCAA remains committed to serve as a vehicle for Nigeria’s private sector to channel and deploy resources to support the National HIV/AIDS response and calls on more businesses, individuals and associations to stand together, lend their voice, support, and passion to this vital cause.