The Lagos State AIDS Control Agency (LSACA) has intensified community health efforts with a sensitisation programme aimed at strengthening HIV prevention and maternal health services across the state.
Eko Hot News reports that the training focused on Traditional Birth Attendants (TBAs), with emphasis on Prevention of Mother-to-Child Transmission (PMTCT) of HIV and universal safety precautions.
The programme was held at the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry (LCCI) in Ikeja and drew participants from across Lagos communities.
It was designed to improve knowledge of safe delivery practices, infection control, stigma reduction, and proper referral systems for pregnant women.
LSACA stated that the initiative is part of ongoing efforts to eliminate new HIV infections among children in Lagos State.
The Chief Executive Officer of LSACA, Dr. Folakemi Animashaun, said Traditional Birth Attendants play a key role in maternal healthcare delivery at the grassroots level.
She described them as trusted community figures whose influence significantly affects maternal and child health decisions.
Dr. Animashaun stressed the importance of collaboration between TBAs and formal healthcare providers to improve health outcomes.
She explained that the training aims to ensure safe childbirth practices and strengthen awareness on HIV prevention measures.
According to her, HIV testing should be part of routine antenatal care for all pregnant women.
She added that positive cases must be promptly referred to health facilities for proper treatment and monitoring.
Dr. Animashaun said participants were selected through collaboration with the Lagos State Traditional Medicine Board and community stakeholders.
She noted that this approach ensures wide coverage and effective knowledge transfer at the grassroots level.
The LSACA boss encouraged participants to adopt universal safety precautions and adhere strictly to referral guidelines.
She also called for continuous engagement between TBAs and healthcare institutions to reduce HIV transmission rates.
A facilitator at the event, Mrs. Adebambo Olushola, highlighted the importance of confidentiality, ethics, and professionalism in maternal care services.
She urged TBAs to protect the privacy of clients, especially regarding HIV status, while promoting access to medical services.
Participants were also trained on infection prevention and control measures to ensure safe delivery environments.
One of the attendees, Prince Mari Tajudeen, commended the Lagos State Government and LSACA for the initiative.
He described the programme as timely and impactful, noting that it would improve the quality of care provided in communities.
He pledged that participants would apply the knowledge gained to enhance maternal and child healthcare delivery.
LSACA reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening community-based HIV prevention programmes across Lagos State.
The agency said collaboration with traditional health practitioners remains essential in achieving an HIV-free generation.
Officials noted that the programme is part of broader efforts to ensure safe pregnancies and reduce infant infections.
They emphasized that continuous education and partnership are key to improving public health outcomes.
