The Lagos State AIDS Control Agency (LSACA) has strengthened the capacity of Peer Educators on harm reduction as part of efforts to improve HIV prevention, community engagement and access to health and psychosocial services across the state.
The capacity-strengthening training was held on Monday, September 21, 2026, at the Lagos Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Ikeja, Lagos.
Speaking at the training, LSACA Chief Executive Officer, Dr Folakemi Animashaun, said Peer Educators play a critical role in the state's HIV response because of their close links with communities and their position as trusted sources of information, support and referrals.
Animashaun said Peer Educators help community members access accurate HIV information, make informed and safer choices, seek HIV testing, use prevention services and remain connected to treatment and care.
She explained that harm reduction focuses on helping people reduce health risks through practical, respectful and non-judgmental approaches while ensuring access to appropriate services and support.
According to her, the training was designed to improve participants' knowledge and practical skills in effective communication, confidentiality, accurate information provision, identification of people requiring additional support and appropriate referrals to health and psychosocial services.
The LSACA chief executive also stressed the importance of professionalism, urging Peer Educators to protect the privacy of beneficiaries, provide accurate information, make proper referrals and treat everyone with dignity and respect.
She said strengthening the connection between community-based services and the formal health system would help people access services earlier, remain connected to care and receive the support they need.
The training facilitator, Isaac Moses, said participants were equipped with practical skills to engage beneficiaries effectively, provide appropriate information, make timely referrals and link individuals to relevant health and psychosocial services.
He emphasised the need for Peer Educators to adopt respectful, confidential, non-judgmental and client-centred approaches when working with vulnerable and underserved populations.
LSACA said the training reinforces its commitment to strengthening community-level capacity for HIV prevention, harm reduction, linkage to services and improved health outcomes across Lagos State.