First Lady Launches Bold Campaign To Tackle HIV/AIDS, Syphilis, And Hepatitis

Nigeria’s First Lady, Oluremi Tinubu, has expressed concern over the rising rate of new HIV infections in the country, highlighting that one of the key contributing factors is the high rate of mother-to-child transmission.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

She called for heightened efforts to meet the global target of eliminating HIV/AIDS, Syphilis, and Hepatitis by 2030.

Senator Tinubu made these remarks on Thursday in Ilorin, Kwara State, as she launched the Free-To-Shine campaign in Nigeria. The campaign is an advocacy initiative by the African Union (AU), the Organisation of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD), and other global partners.

In a statement issued by her Media Aide, Busola Kukoyi, the First Lady also emphasized the need for urgent action to counter the growing complacency in addressing the spread of these diseases, particularly in Africa. She noted that Nigeria, with the largest population in Sub-Saharan Africa, carries the highest burden of HIV/AIDS, especially among children, women, youth, and marginalized communities.

“The Free to Shine Campaign is designed to address the complacency in Africa’s response to HIV/AIDS. Nigeria, with its significant population, faces a high burden of these diseases, particularly among vulnerable groups,” said Mrs. Tinubu. “This campaign aims to drastically reduce new HIV infections among women of reproductive age, eliminate mother-to-child transmission (vertical transmission), and ensure that every child born with HIV receives the necessary treatment and support to thrive.”

The campaign’s goal is to raise awareness, renew commitment, and foster collective action against these diseases, aligning with the shared vision of a healthier Nigeria where all individuals, especially women, youth, and children, can live healthier lives.

“It is heartbreaking to know that just two years ago, fifteen thousand children aged 0-14 lost their lives to AIDS-related illnesses,” she added. “Each of these children was more than just a statistic; they represented futures cut short. This tragic loss highlights the urgent need for better prevention strategies, improved diagnosis, and increased access to treatment.”