By Emmanuel Awari-Jalingo
The First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, on Friday launched the “Free to Shine” campaign to combat HIV/AIDS, syphilis, and hepatitis in the Northeast zone. The initiative aims to reduce new HIV infections among women of reproductive age and prevent mother-to-child transmission.
The campaign was launched at the Jolly Nyame stadium Jalingo, the Taraba State capital. She emphasised the importance of the initiative.
“Free to Shine” campaign seeks to raise awareness, renew commitment, and take collective action against HIV/AIDS, syphilis, and hepatitis.
The First Lady stressed the need to deepen engagement with traditional and faith-based institutions to address cultural and religious influences on HIV prevention behaviours.
She expressed concern over the high number of children and adults living with HIV, citing the need for increased awareness and action.
‘Nigeria is the country with the highest burden of HIV/AIDS in Sub-Saharan Africa due to its large population,” she said.
“The campaign will cover all six geopolitical zones of the country, with the goal of eliminating HIV/AIDS, syphilis, and hepatitis by 2030.
In his remarks, the State Governor, Dr Agbu Kefas appreciated the First Lady’s leadership and commitment to the cause.
“Your Excellency, you continue to make us proud with the noble causes you pursue,” he said.
He commended the Federal Government for the campaign and pleaded for more funds to fight the HIV/AIDS and to make Taraba HIV AIDS free society by 2030.
The Governor also appointed two victims of HIV/AIDS who gave testimonies about their lives as carriers as Special Advisers to the Wife of the Governor of Taraba.
He announced that both women would receive automatic appointments as Special Advisers attached to the Office of the First Lady of Taraba State.
“Please, the First Lady of Nigeria, if you go, inform Mr. President also of the federal funds and interventions given to Taraba State are being properly and judiciously utilised for the benefit of our citizens, we have proof for that.
“We, therefore, respectfully request that more resources be extended to Taraba as we are prepared, committed and accountable in transforming every intervention into human resources.
“For the two ladies that spoke out, the government of Taraba will be appointing you Special Adviser from this day and attach you to the office of the First Lady of Taraba State, after here you can go to the office and collect your appointment letters,” Governor Kefas stated.
The governor also used the opportunity to urge Mrs. Tinubu to advocate for increased federal intervention in the state, promising transparency and prudent use of resources.