The Oyo State Agency for the Control of AIDS has extended its integrated health outreach to traders and residents at Ajegunle Market in Atiba Local Government Area, providing free screening for HIV, malaria, and tuberculosis.
The initiative, designed to boost grassroots health interventions, forms part of the state government’s ongoing disease prevention efforts. This was disclosed in a statement issued on Saturday by the Commissioner for Information, Dotun Oyelade.
Speaking at the event, OYSACA Coordinating Director, Dr. Wale Falana, said the outreach was aimed at taking essential health services directly to people who may not have easy access to healthcare facilities. He explained that the programme included free HIV and malaria tests, tuberculosis screening, and the distribution of medications to individuals requiring immediate treatment.
Falana added that those who test positive for HIV would be referred to designated treatment centres for proper care and follow-up, stressing the importance of knowing one’s HIV status as a key step toward prevention and effective management.
He urged residents to undergo regular health checks and adopt safer health practices, including avoiding unprotected sex, refraining from sharing sharp objects, and steering clear of behaviours that heighten the risk of infection.
The agency also commended Seyi Makinde for supporting initiatives that strengthen healthcare delivery at the grassroots.
Highlighting the collaborative nature of HIV response, Falana noted that citizens, government, and health workers all play vital roles. He reaffirmed the commitment of health professionals to deliver quality services while acknowledging the state government’s support in expanding access to care.
Chairman of Atiba Local Government, Wahab Adetunji, represented by the Supervisory Councillor for Health, Salau Musa, described the outreach as timely and impactful, particularly for vulnerable residents who may struggle to afford medical services.
Similarly, the Babaloja and Iyaloja of Ajegunle Market, Mr. Rasak Oyelayo and Alhaja Fasilatu Motunrayo, praised the agency for bringing the health campaign to the market, noting that it would greatly benefit traders and the surrounding community, especially those facing financial challenges in accessing healthcare.
