First Lady Launches ‘Free to Shine’ in Taraba, Targets HIV Elimination Among Women and Children

Senator Oluremi Tinubu, Wife of the President of Nigeria, on Friday inaugurated the Free to Shine Campaign in Taraba State, kicking off a bold new effort to eliminate HIV/AIDS, syphilis, and hepatitis among women and children.

Speaking during the event, Mrs. Tinubu said the campaign was primarily targeted at women and youths, with the goal of promoting the triple elimination of the diseases among women of reproductive age.

She explained that the initiative also aimed at halting mother-to-child transmission and ensuring treatment access for children born with HIV/AIDS.

According to her, the campaign will be rolled out across the six geopolitical zones of Nigeria, with the Taraba launch representing the official take-off for the North East region.

“The campaign will actively involve traditional and religious leaders to help deepen awareness and reach the grassroots,” she stated.

Mrs. Tinubu also reassured Nigerians of the Federal Government’s commitment to tackling HIV/AIDS, saying: “There is no need to panic. The Federal Government has made adequate provisions for HIV drugs and test kits across the country.”

In his remarks, Taraba State Governor Agbu Kefas praised the Federal Government for initiating the campaign. He expressed his administration’s resolve to support the cause and pledged to work toward making Taraba an HIV-free state by 2030.

In a symbolic gesture at the event, Governor Kefas appointed two HIV-positive individuals—who had courageously shared their personal testimonies—as Special Advisers to the Wife of the Governor, acknowledging their bravery and role in public advocacy.

Also speaking, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Mohammed Pate, revealed that the Federal Government had earmarked N200 billion for the procurement of HIV drugs, adding that the funds were captured in the 2025 supplementary budget.