The First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has said HIV/AIDS should no longer be treated as a disease of shame but openly discussed to promote prevention, testing, and access to care.
She made the call on Monday, December 1, 2025, at the 2025 World AIDS Day commemoration organised by the National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA) in Abuja.
Senator Tinubu noted that Nigeria’s HIV response is progressing steadily toward the global target of eliminating mother-to-child transmission of HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B by 2030.
She highlighted her advocacy efforts under the Renewed Hope Initiative’s Free to Shine campaign, which has been launched across all six geopolitical zones in partnership with the Organization of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD).
“This campaign promotes the triple elimination of HIV, hepatitis, and syphilis by 2030, reinforcing Africa’s political commitment to safeguarding mothers and children through early testing, treatment, and stigma reduction,” she said.
Calling for national support, the First Lady urged Nigerians to rally behind President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda aimed at achieving an HIV-free Nigeria by 2030.
She appealed to parents, teachers, and youths to take responsibility for their health by encouraging open conversations, regular testing, and community support for people living with HIV.
She said, “To our young people, I encourage you to take responsibility for your health, get tested, and know your status. To our communities, let us foster a culture of love, acceptance, and support.”
Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Salako, described World AIDS Day as a moment to honor the resilience of people living with HIV globally.
He stressed the importance of mentorship, community-based programmes, and strengthened partnerships to end AIDS in Nigeria.
Also speaking, NACA Director General, Dr. Temitope Ilori, reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to global health goals, stressing public awareness, inclusion, and the role of community, traditional, and religious leaders. She noted that the recent reduction of the age of consent for HIV testing from 18 to 14 would enhance early diagnosis and better protect young people.
The event underscored renewed national determination to eliminate stigma, scale up testing, and accelerate progress toward ending AIDS as a public health threat.
