Oluremi Tinubu calls for empathy at World AIDS Day event

By Kunle Sanni –

First Lady Oluremi Tinubu has urged Nigerians to show greater empathy and kindness toward people living with HIV, emphasising that the disease should no longer be treated with shame or secrecy.

Speaking at the National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA)’s commemoration of the 2025 World AIDS Day in Abuja, Mrs Tinubu stressed the need to bring HIV-related conversations into the open, particularly on prevention, testing, and access to treatment.

The first lady highlighted progress in Nigeria’s HIV response, noting that the country is advancing toward the global target of eliminating mother-to-child transmission of HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B by 2030. She linked this progress to the Renewed Hope Initiative’s Free to Shine Campaign, which she championed across all six geopolitical zones.

“In partnership with the Organisation of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD), the Free to Shine Campaign was launched nationwide to promote the triple elimination of HIV, hepatitis, and syphilis by 2030,” she said. “This reinforces Africa’s political commitment to protecting mothers and children through early testing, treatment, and stigma reduction.”

Senator Tinubu also called on Nigerians to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and the commitment to achieving an HIV-free Nigeria by 2030. She appealed to parents, teachers, and community leaders to openly discuss HIV prevention and encourage young people to take responsibility for their health by getting tested and knowing their status.

“To our communities, let us foster a culture of love, acceptance, and support for people living with HIV,” she added.

Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr Iziaq Salako, who also spoke at the event, described World AIDS Day as a moment to honour the resilience of people living with HIV in Nigeria and globally. He emphasised the importance of mentorship, community-based programming, and strong partnerships to end AIDS.

NACA director-general, Dr Temitope Ilori, reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to global health targets and called for sustained public awareness and social inclusion. She noted that the recent reduction of the age of consent for HIV testing from 18 to 14 aligns Nigeria with international standards that promote early diagnosis and youth protection.