The Federal Government has officially launched a “Free to Shine Campaign”, a nationwide initiative aimed at eliminating HIV, Syphilis, and Tuberculosis, with a focus on preventing mother-to-child transmission and ensuring access to treatment and care for affected individuals.
The Free to Shine Campaign is an initiative led by the Organisation of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD) designed to achieve the triple elimination of HIV, Syphilis, and Tuberculosis (TB) in Nigeria.
In his address at the launch, Dr. Iziaq Adekunle Salako, Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, commended the First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, for her leadership and commitment to the health and well-being of Nigerians.
He also encouraged the Spouses of Governors in the North-West to emulate her leadership in their respective states.
“The campaign is a call to action for improved health programming, bringing together government agencies, healthcare providers, community leaders, civil society, and individuals to unite in the fight against these diseases.
“According to UNAIDS 2023 data, Nigeria has 140,000 children aged 0-14 living with HIV, with 22,000 new infections and 15,000 AIDS-related deaths each year.”
