Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has introduced the ‘Free to Shine’ campaign, a nationwide initiative aimed at reducing new HIV infections among women of reproductive age and preventing mother-to-child transmission.
The campaign was officially launched during the flag-off of the Organisation of African First Ladies for Development’s ‘Free to Shine’ initiative in the North-West zone in Kaduna on Tuesday.
In her speech, Mrs. Tinubu highlighted the significance of the campaign, pointing out that Nigeria has the highest HIV/AIDS burden in Sub-Saharan Africa. She emphasized that the initiative is dedicated to ensuring every child born with HIV receives the necessary treatment and support to thrive.
“Nigeria, due to its large population, carries the heaviest burden of HIV/AIDS in Sub-Saharan Africa. This burden is especially devastating for children, youth, women, and marginalized groups,” she said.
The First Lady explained that the ‘Free to Shine’ campaign’s objectives are to raise awareness, reaffirm commitment, and encourage collective action against HIV/AIDS, syphilis, and hepatitis.
She also stressed the need for stronger engagement with traditional and faith-based organizations to address cultural and religious influences on HIV prevention behaviors.
Mrs. Tinubu expressed concern over the alarming number of people living with HIV in Nigeria, including children and adults, citing statistics from the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare.
“In 2024, over 100,000 children and nearly two million adults were living with HIV. Additionally, many infants born to HIV-positive mothers are not tested within the first two months of life, often due to the mothers’ lack of awareness or understanding of the consequences of their inaction,” she said.
The First Lady also advocated for the elimination of HIV/AIDS, syphilis, and hepatitis by 2030. “I am committed to advocating for the triple elimination of HIV/AIDS, syphilis, and hepatitis by 2030. This campaign will span all six geopolitical zones of the nation,” she added.
Governor Uba Sani of Kaduna State, who attended the launch, commended Mrs. Tinubu for her inspiring leadership and dedication to the cause. He urged both state and federal governments to refine and strengthen policies related to HIV/AIDS, syphilis, and hepatitis.
“Your Excellency, you continue to make us proud with the noble causes you pursue. You stand for the vulnerable, the poor, and the underserved, and now you are using your skills and expertise in service to African women and children. In designing and implementing interventions, we must ensure the full involvement of people living with HIV/AIDS and those affected by syphilis and hepatitis. We must also engage communities and intensify awareness campaigns on these health issues,” Governor Sani concluded.
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