The First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, on Friday flagged off the “Free to Shine” campaign in Taraba State, an ambitious health initiative aimed at eliminating HIV/AIDS, syphilis, and hepatitis among women of reproductive age.
Wife of the Vice President, Hajiya Nana Shettima, accompanied the First Lady to the launch held at the Gymnastics Hall of Jolly Nyame Stadium in Jalingo, as part of her two-day official visit to the state.
The “Free to Shine” campaign is a key component of the Renewed Hope Initiative (RHI), championed by the First Lady to improve healthcare outcomes and support vulnerable populations across Nigeria. The programme is focused on enhancing awareness, access to care, and the elimination of mother-to-child transmission of the three diseases.
In her address, Senator Tinubu underscored the urgency of the campaign, citing alarming statistics on the prevalence of HIV/AIDS, especially among women and children. She called for increased collaboration among stakeholders, including state governments, healthcare professionals, and community leaders.
“This campaign is not just about treatment—it is about prevention, awareness, and ensuring that every woman and child in Nigeria has the opportunity to live a healthy and productive life,” she said.
She further noted that by working closely with wives of state governors and mobilizing grassroots support, the Renewed Hope Initiative seeks to create a sustainable response to Nigeria’s pressing health challenges.
On her part, Hajiya Nana Shettima commended the First Lady’s commitment to national development through healthcare interventions and reaffirmed the support of the Vice President’s office towards the success of the initiative.
The event attracted dignitaries including the wife of the Taraba State Governor, Mrs. Agyin Kefas, health officials, traditional rulers, and women’s groups, who pledged their support for the campaign.
The “Free to Shine” campaign will continue with outreach activities, community sensitization, and provision of free testing and treatment services across targeted communities in Taraba State.
