First Lady launches campaign to eliminate HIV, hepatitis, syphilis in South-West
By Kunle Sanni
First Lady Oluremi Tinubu on Friday launched the “Free to Shine” Triple Elimination Campaign in Akure, Ondo State, making the South-West the fifth geopolitical zone to join the national drive to eliminate HIV, hepatitis, and syphilis by 2030.
At the event, Senator Tinubu urged young people to get tested regularly and help end stigma surrounding the diseases.
“Your age group is among the most vulnerable. Please take care and protect yourselves,” she said. “This campaign cannot succeed without your involvement.”
She also highlighted the importance of engaging traditional and faith-based institutions, especially those involved in maternal care, to expand access to testing, counseling, and treatment.
The First Lady commended healthcare workers, government agencies, and international partners including WHO, UNAIDS, UNICEF, UNDP, and PEPFAR. She praised members of the Association of People Living with HIV/AIDS for their courage in sharing their stories, calling them “a powerful reminder of resilience and hope.”
Ondo State Governor, Dr. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, pledged to review the state’s healthcare budget to support the campaign. Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Salako, said the federal government is considering subsidized liver and kidney function tests for people living with HIV/AIDS.
