Dr. Bello Yusuf Jamoh, Executive Secretary of the Kaduna State Primary Health Care Board (KSPHCB), has commended the First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for her dedication to reducing new HIV infections among women of reproductive age and preventing mother-to-child transmission through the ‘Free to Shine’ campaign.
Speaking at the Northwest flag-off of the Organisation of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD) Free to Shine Campaign in Kaduna, Dr. Jamoh described the initiative as a significant step toward improving maternal and child health.
“I must commend the First Lady for championing the Free to Shine Campaign as a beacon of hope for millions. Her dedication to eliminating mother-to-child transmission of HIV and advocating for the health of women and children across Africa is truly commendable,” he stated.
Senator Tinubu emphasized that the initiative aims to ensure that every child born with HIV receives adequate 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.
Expressing concern over Nigeria’s high burden of HIV/AIDS, she cited the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare’s 2024 report, which revealed that over 100,000 children and nearly two million adults live 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 also highlighted Hepatitis and Syphilis as major public health concerns, warning about their severe consequences.
“If Syphilis is left untreated, it can result in miscarriages, stillbirths, congenital anomalies, and neonatal and infant deaths, among other complications,” she stated.
Dr. Jamoh also commended Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, for prioritizing primary healthcare and strengthening the fight against infectious diseases.
“Governor Uba Sani’s unwavering support for primary healthcare in Kaduna State has laid a solid foundation for impactful interventions. His commitment ensures that essential health services reach the grassroots, strengthening the fight against HIV/AIDS, Hepatitis, among other diseases,” he stated.
Governor Uba Sani, in turn, lauded the First Lady’s leadership and commitment to vulnerable groups.
“Senator Oluremi stands for the vulnerable, the poor, and the underserved. She is now deploying her skills and competencies in the service of African women and children,” he said.
The Governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to partnering with OAFLAD to develop and implement strategies to eliminate HIV/AIDS, Syphilis, and Hepatitis in Kaduna State.
