Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has launched 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.
Speaking at the North-West flag-off of the Organisation of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD) campaign in Kaduna on Tuesday, Mrs. Tinubu emphasized Nigeria’s high HIV/AIDS burden, particularly among children, youth, women, and marginalized groups.
“Nigeria bears the highest burden of HIV/AIDS in Sub-Saharan Africa due to its large population. This challenge is particularly severe among vulnerable groups,” she stated. “The goal of the ‘Free to Shine’ campaign is to raise awareness, renew commitment, and take collective action against HIV/AIDS, syphilis, and hepatitis.”
She stressed the need for increased engagement with traditional and faith-based institutions to address cultural and religious influences on HIV prevention efforts.
Citing data from the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, the First Lady highlighted the urgency of intervention, revealing that in 2024, over 100,000 children and nearly two million adults were living with HIV in Nigeria. She also noted that many infants born to HIV-positive mothers do not receive early testing due to a lack of awareness.
Mrs. Tinubu further called for the elimination of HIV/AIDS, syphilis, and hepatitis by 2030, stating that the campaign would be implemented across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones.
Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, commended the First Lady’s leadership, urging both state and federal governments to strengthen policies addressing HIV/AIDS and related infections.
“You have continued to champion noble causes, standing for the vulnerable and underserved. We must ensure that people living with HIV/AIDS, syphilis, and hepatitis are actively involved in intervention programs while intensifying awareness efforts,” he said.
The “Free to Shine” campaign spearheaded by OAFLAD, seeks to enhance community engagement, increase awareness, and foster active participation in the fight against HIV/AIDS, syphilis, and hepatitis.
The launch event was attended by government officials, traditional leaders, and representatives of civil society organizations.
