The First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has expressed deep concern over the rising rate of new HIV infections in the country, attributing it in part to high rates of mother-to-child transmission.
Tinubu emphasised the need for intensified efforts to meet the global Triple Elimination target, which aims to eradicate HIV/AIDS, Syphilis, and Hepatitis by 2030.
Tinubu made this call in Ilorin, Kwara State, during the official launch of the Free-To-Shine campaign in Nigeria.
The initiative, championed by the African Union (AU), the Organisation of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD), and global partners, seeks to tackle growing complacency in the fight against HIV/AIDS in Africa.
“Nigeria bears the highest burden of HIV/AIDS in Sub-Saharan Africa due to our large population, with children, youth, women, and marginalized groups particularly affected,” she noted. “The Free-To-Shine campaign is designed to reduce new infections among women of reproductive age, prevent mother-to-child transmission, and ensure that children born with HIV receive the treatment and support they need to thrive”, Tinubu said.
The First Lady stressed that the campaign aims to raise awareness, renew commitment, and mobilise collective action against these diseases.
She lamented that just two years ago, 15,000 children under the age of 14 in Nigeria lost their lives to AIDS-related illnesses adding, “Each of these children was not just a statistic but a future full of potential, tragically cut short,” she said. “The ongoing challenges they face highlight the urgent need to improve prevention, diagnosis, and access to treatment.”
She further highlighted the dangers posed by Hepatitis and Syphilis, describing them as major public health concerns.
According to experts, Hepatitis—particularly types B and C—could lead to chronic liver disease and liver cancer.
She added that Syphilis, if untreated, contributes to miscarriages, stillbirths, congenital abnormalities, and infant deaths.
While commending health workers and relevant agencies for their dedication to combating these diseases, the First Lady called on faith-based organisations, traditional institutions, educational institutions, and families to play a more active role in raising awareness.
She urged those involved in childbirth services to expand access to HIV testing, counseling, treatment, and care for individuals who test positive.
With the launch of the Free-To-Shine campaign, Tinubu reaffirmed her commitment to building a healthier Nigeria where women, youth, and children can lead longer, healthier lives.
