…Flags Off Free-To-Shine Initiative in Kwara State
The First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has expressed deep concern over the rising rate of new HIV infections in the country, particularly due to high mother-to-child transmission.
She emphasized the need to intensify efforts to achieve the global Triple Elimination target of HIV/AIDS, Syphilis, and Hepatitis by 2030.
Senator Tinubu made this call in Ilorin, Kwara State, as she launched the Free-To-Shine campaign in Nigeria—an advocacy initiative of the African Union (AU), the Organisation of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD), and other global partners.
According to the First Lady, growing complacency in tackling these diseases in Africa is alarming.
“The Free-To-Shine Campaign is an advocacy initiative of the AU, OAFLAD, and global partners aimed at addressing the increasing complacency in the response to the spread of HIV/AIDS in Africa. Nigeria, having the highest burden of HIV/AIDS in Sub-Saharan Africa due to our population size, faces an especially high prevalence among children, youth, women, and marginalized groups.
The campaign seeks to significantly reduce new HIV infections among women of reproductive age, prevent mother-to-child transmission of HIV (vertical transmission), and ensure that every child born with HIV receives the necessary treatment and support to thrive.”
The First Lady stressed that the campaign is aimed at raising awareness, renewing commitment, and taking collective action against these diseases.
She reaffirmed her vision of a healthier Nigeria, where women, youth, and children can thrive and live healthier lives.
“It is heartbreaking to learn that just two years ago, 15,000 children between the ages of 0-14 lost their lives to AIDS-related illnesses. Each of these children was not just a statistic but a life full of potential, tragically cut short. These ongoing challenges highlight the urgent need for sustained action to improve prevention strategies, diagnosis, and access to treatment.”
She further noted that in Nigeria, Hepatitis and Syphilis remain public health concerns.
“Hepatitis, particularly Hepatitis B and C, continues to pose a significant threat, as it can lead to chronic liver diseases and even liver cancer. Syphilis, if left untreated, can result in miscarriages, stillbirths, congenital anomalies, neonatal deaths, and infant mortality.”
Commending healthcare workers and agencies working to combat these diseases, Senator Tinubu urged faith-based institutions, traditional leaders, educational institutions, and family units to intensify advocacy on HIV prevention.
She specifically called for increased access to HIV testing services, comprehensive counseling, and treatment for those who test positive.
In his remarks, the Governor of Kwara State, Mallam Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, applauded the First Lady for leading the campaign and expressed confidence that Nigeria can achieve the Triple Elimination goal by 2030.
“We have a president who is highly committed to improving the health and well-being of Nigerians.”
The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Mohammed Ali Pate, reaffirmed his ministry’s commitment to ensuring Nigeria exits the list of countries with high rates of HIV/AIDS and related diseases.
WHO Country Representative, Dr. Walter Mulombo, emphasized that this renewed campaign will significantly improve maternal and child healthcare outcomes.
He also assured WHO’s commitment to working with OAFLAD, First Lady Oluremi Tinubu, and the Nigerian government despite the challenges the organization currently faces.
Other development partners, including UNICEF, the National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA), and the National AIDS/STIs Control Programme (NASCP), also reiterated their support for the campaign.
The Free-To-Shine Campaign for the Triple Elimination of HIV/AIDS, Syphilis, and Hepatitis is expected to be championed in all states of the federation by the wives of state governors.
