''Light Up The Beach'' AIDS Memorial event

Save Our Needy joined the rest of the world on Sunday, May 15th, to mark the 33rd International AIDS Candlelight Memorial under the theme "Light Up The Beach."

Motunrayo Adebayo, facilitator from Lagos State AIDS Control Agency, interacting with participants

The event which held at Elegushi Beach, Lagos (Eden Bar), was an opportunity to honor all those who have passed away from AIDS. In a relaxed ambience, participants were better educated and informed about basic facts of HIV/AIDS by Mr. Motunrayo Adebayo, a facilitator from the Lagos State AIDS Control Agency (LSACA).

Awareness raising on HIV/AIDS was also done at the event

One of the high points of the event was the interactive session with Chioma, who discovered her HIV status at the age of 15. She had unfortunately been subjected to contaminated blood transfusion at the age of 3! She relived her experiences which induced gasps from everyone present. It was indeed eye opening.

A ONE Champion was also on hand to shed more light on the current sad state of the Nigerian health system and the need for drastic reform and investments in the sector. He explained to participants the need to sign the petition on the one.org website urging the Nigerian government to increase budget allocation to the health sector under the theme "Make Naija Stronger.

At the end of the event, participants lit candles as a symbol of respect for all those who have died from AIDS.

Juwon of Mimer's Art thrilled participants at the event

Save Our Needy Program Manager, Jerry Odili, with Juwon of Mimer's Art

The CEO of Save Our Needy, Marvella Odili, expressed her satisfaction at the successful hosting of the event despite the heavy downpour..

From left: CEO, Save Our Needy, Marvella Odili, ONE members, Richard Emerenwa (middle), ONE Champion