First lady, Senator Remi Tinubu, has called on traditional rulers, religious leaders, market associations and youth groups to join hands in intensifying awareness about HIV/AIDS, particularly among adolescents and women of reproductive age.
Speaking at the flag-off of the Free to Shine Triple Elimination Campaign in the North-East geopolitical zone, the first lady emphasised that achieving national progress in the fight against HIV required grassroots mobilisation and cultural gatekeepers who can influence public attitudes and behaviour.
In a statement by her media aide, Busola Kukoyi, she warned that despite progress in combating HIV, Nigeria still records high numbers of undiagnosed cases and mother-to-child transmissions, largely due to ignorance and late testing.
“In 2024 alone, over 100,000 children and nearly two million adults were reported to be living with HIV,” Mrs Tinubu stated. “Heartbreakingly, 15,000 children between ages 0–14 died from AIDS-related illnesses just two years ago. These are not mere statistics — these are futures lost.”
Mrs Tinubu stressed the need for early testing and treatment, describing HIV as a manageable condition that is no longer a death sentence.
“Everyone must get tested, know their status, and access care. It’s the only way forward,” she added.
The Free to Shine campaign, which aligns with the UNAIDS 95-95-95 goal to end AIDS by 2030, also focuses on the elimination of syphilis and hepatitis, particularly among vulnerable groups.
Taraba State Governor Dr Agbu Kefas, commended the first lady for her leadership, noting that her passion is already yielding results. He immediately offered employment to two HIV-positive widows who shared their survival stories at the event.
Also speaking, Coordinating Minister of Health, Prof Muhammad Ali Pate, disclosed that President Bola Tinubu had approved N200bn for HIV, tuberculosis, and malaria interventions, including the purchase of testing kits.
He urged Nigerians to take ownership of their health, noting that HIV, hepatitis, and syphilis still pose serious challenges to the country’s healthcare system.
Representatives of UNAIDS, WHO, NACA, and other development partners pledged continued support to Nigeria’s efforts.
The Free to Shine campaign is part of a continent-wide advocacy drive under the Organization of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD), aimed at eliminating new infections among women, children, and youth.
