Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has stated that the Free to Shine campaign is dedicated to reducing new HIV infections among women of reproductive age and preventing mother-to-child transmission.
She made this known during the flag-off of the Organisation of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD) Free to Shine Campaign in the Northwest zone, held in Kaduna.
According to the First Lady, the initiative seeks to ensure that every child born with HIV receives the necessary treatment and support to thrive.
“To complement the Free to Shine Campaign, I have also decided to advocate for the triple elimination of HIV/AIDS, Syphilis, and Hepatitis by 2030. This campaign will cover the six geopolitical zones of the nation,” she announced.
Senator Tinubu expressed concern that Nigeria bears the highest burden of HIV/AIDS in Sub-Saharan Africa due to its large population, with children, youth, women, and marginalised groups being most affected.
“The Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare in 2024 reported that there were over 100,000 children and nearly two million adults living with HIV.
“Also, it is reported that most infants born to HIV-positive mothers are not tested within the first two months of birth, largely due to the fact that the mothers are not aware or they are ignorant of the consequences of their inaction,’’ she revealed.
The First Lady further noted that Hepatitis and Syphilis remain major public health concerns in Nigeria, stressing that experts warn of the significant threat posed by Hepatitis, particularly Hepatitis B and C, which can lead to chronic liver disease and liver cancer.
“If Syphilis is left untreated, it can result in miscarriages, stillbirths, congenital anomalies, and neonatal and infant deaths, among other complications.”
She emphasised that the goal of the Free to Shine campaign is to raise awareness, renew commitment, and take collective action against these diseases.
“We must deepen engagement with traditional and faith-based institutions to address cultural and religious influences on HIV prevention behaviours, especially those engaging in birthing services, by expanding access to HIV testing services with comprehensive counselling, treatment, and care for all individuals who test positive,” she urged.
Speaking at the event, Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, commended the First Lady for her leadership, describing her as an inspiration to Nigerians.
“Senator Oluremi stands for the vulnerable, the poor, and the underserved. She is now deploying her skills and competences in the service of African women and children.”
The Governor called on both state and federal governments to refine and strengthen policies on HIV/AIDS, Hepatitis, and Syphilis.
He further assured that his administration would continue to partner with the Organisation of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD) to devise and implement strategies to eliminate HIV/AIDS, Syphilis, and Hepatitis.
