First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has sounded the alarm over the increasing rate of new HIV infections in the country, calling for concerted efforts to combat the spread of HIV/AIDS, Syphilis, and Hepatitis.

Speaking at the flag-off ceremony of the Free-To-Shine campaign in the North West Geo-political Zone, Senator Tinubu emphasized the need for intensified efforts to achieve the global Triple Elimination target of HIV/AIDS, Syphilis, and Hepatitis by 2030.

“The growing complacency in the response to the spread of these diseases in Africa is worrisome,” she said. “Nigeria has the highest burden of HIV/AIDS in Sub-Saharan Africa, and the burden is particularly high among children, youth, women, and marginalized groups.”

The Free-To-Shine campaign, an advocacy initiative of the African Union, the Organisation of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD), and global partners, aims to significantly reduce new HIV infections among women of reproductive age, prevent mother-to-child transmission of HIV, and ensure that every child born with HIV receives necessary treatment and support.

Senator Tinubu commended health workers and agencies involved in combating the diseases, while calling on faith-based institutions, traditional institutions, institutions of learning, and family units to deepen advocacy on prevention and expand access to HIV testing services.

Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, thanked the First Lady for leading the campaign, expressing confidence that Nigeria can achieve the Triple Elimination goal by 2030.

The Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Adekunle Salako, assured that the Ministry will not relent in ensuring Nigeria exits the list of countries with high statistics of HIV/AIDS and other diseases.

The event was attended by representatives from the World Health Organization (WHO), UNICEF, NACA, and NASCP, who reiterated their commitment to the campaign.

The Free-To-Shine campaign is expected to be championed in all states of the federation by wives of governors.