FIC Report (Kwara State) – The wife of the President, Senator Oluremi Tinubu has launched Free to Shine campaign in Ilorin, an initiative of the Organization of African First Ladies (OAFLAD) that is mobilising support to end new HIV infections and protect children and women.
Senator Tinubu that the campaign was designed to significantly reduce the number of new HIV and other new infections among women of reproductive age, prevent mother-to-child transmission, and to guarantee that every child born with HIV receives the necessary treatment and support to strive.
“To complement the Free to Shine campaign, I have also decided to advocate for the triple elimination of HIV, Syphilis and Hepatitis. This campaign will be held across the six geopolitical zones of the nation,” the First Lady said.
Governor AbdulRazaq, for his part, commended the First Lady for championing the OAFLAD Free to Shine Campaign to end new infections in children and ensure that mothers stay alive.
“Three days ago, we received reports about a significant shift in global HIV/AIDS policies and funding. This change will have far-reaching effects in Africa, and we must act swiftly to minimise its impact on millions of Africans living with HIV,” he said.
Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare Prof. Muhammed Ali Pate said the Tinubu administration has spent a lot of money on testing and treatment for many Nigerians who are suffering from HIV/AIDS, Syphilis and Hepatitis.
He said at least 1.5million HIV/AIDS’ patients in Nigeria are currently under treatment, adding that the statistics indicates that tremendous progress is being made when compared to what obtained in the early 2000.
Country representative for World Health Organization (WHO) Dr Walter Kazadi Mulombo said the campaign aligns with the 78-point resolutions of member states, committing to the 2022-2030 Global Health Strategies.
Signed
FADEYI, B. A.
(PIO)
FIC, Ilorin.
