Nigeria’s first lady, Sen. Oluremi Tinubu, has said the Free to Shine campaign will cover the six geopolitical zones of the country to reduce new HIV infections among women of reproductive age and to prevent mother-to-child transmission.
Sen. Oluremi Tinubu made this known at the flag-off of the Organisation of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD) Free To Shine Campaign in the North West zone at Kaduna yesterday.
Tinubu’s wife lamented that Nigeria is the country with the highest burden of HIV/AIDS in Sub-Saharan Africa due to its large population, adding that ‘’This burden is particularly severe among children, youth, women, and marginalised groups.’’
The first lady also said the Free to Shine campaign aims to ‘’ensure that every child born with HIV receives the necessary treatment and support to thrive”.
‘’To complement the Free to Shine Campaign, I have also decided to advocate for the triple elimination of HIV/AIDS, Syphilis and Hepatitis by 2030. This campaign will cover the nation’s six (6) geopolitical zones.
‘’According to the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, in 2024, there were over 100,000 children and nearly two million adults living with HIV,” she said.
Speaking at the event, Kaduna State governor Uba Sani commended the first lady for her inspirational leadership, adding, ‘’You have continued to make us proud with the noble causes you are pursuing.’’
