By Esther Onyegbula

Youth Empowerment and Development Initiative (YEDI), a non-governmental organization, marked World AIDS Day with a free medical outreach for traders at Odo Eran Market, Itire, Lagos.

The event, themed “Take the Right Path,” provided free medical consultations, screenings, medications, and counseling services.

According to YEDI’s Executive Director, Adeoye Oluwatomisin, the outreach supports the government’s goal of eliminating HIV by 2030. “We’re here to raise awareness about HIV prevention and encourage people to know their status. Our services include HIV and hepatitis B testing, vital checks, and access to doctors and nurses. The aim is to educate the community and prevent the spread of HIV,” Oluwatomisin explained.

Emphasizing the importance of reducing stigma, she noted, “HIV is not a death sentence and can be managed. We must encourage people not to discriminate against those living with HIV. Providing free screenings helps people make informed health decisions because health is wealth.”

Oluwatomisin also outlined plans to reach 500 people through the outreach and over one million others through online and radio platforms. “Awareness campaigns have been effective, but we remain committed to educating more people and promoting healthy practices,” she added.

Addressing the rise in HIV cases, she highlighted the risks of unhygienic practices, such as sharing blades and nail scissors. “We need more awareness, especially among artisans, to promote safe habits,” she said.

Praising YEDI’s efforts, the Iyaloja of Odo Eran Market, Mrs. Adebisi Abiola Elizabeth, said, “YEDI officials asked me to inform the traders about the outreach. I appreciate their initiative and pray for blessings on the organizers. Many traders, who often can’t afford hospital visits, benefited from the free services.”

Sharing her experience, a food vendor, Mrs. Okon Friday, said, “I came to buy supplies and saw people receiving medical tests. I joined, got tested, saw the doctor, and received medication. They even gave us snacks.”