First Lady Oluremi Tinubu calls for empathy, end to stigma against people living with HIV/AIDS

First Lady Oluremi Tinubu calls for empathy, end to stigma against people living with HIV/AIDS

The First Lady of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, has urged Nigerians to show compassion and end discrimination against people living with HIV/AIDS, stressing that the condition should no longer be treated with shame or silence.

She made this call at the National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA) event commemorating the 2025 World AIDS Day.

Senator Tinubu noted that Nigeria is progressing towards eliminating mother-to-child transmission of HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B by 2030. She emphasized that the Renewed Hope Initiative’s Free to Shine campaign, launched across the six geopolitical zones in collaboration with the Organization of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD), is a major driver of this effort.

“This campaign promotes the triple elimination of HIV, hepatitis, and syphilis by 2030, reinforcing Africa’s commitment to safeguarding mothers and children through early testing, treatment, and stigma reduction,” she said.

The First Lady called on citizens to support President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda and his administration’s goal of achieving an HIV-free Nigeria by 2030.

She further appealed to parents, guardians, teachers, and young people to openly discuss HIV prevention, seek guidance, and access health services.

“To our young people, I encourage you to take responsibility for your health, get tested, and know your status. To our communities, let us foster a culture of love, acceptance, and support for people living with HIV,” she added.

In his remarks, the Minister of State for Health and Social Welfare, Dr. Iziaq Salako, described World AIDS Day as a moment to honour the resilience of people living with HIV in Nigeria and globally. He highlighted the importance of mentorship, community-based programming, and sustained partnerships.

Also speaking at the event, the Director-General of NACA, Dr. Temitope Ilori, reaffirmed Nigeria’s alignment with global health goals. She underscored the importance of public awareness, social inclusion, and collaboration with community, traditional, and religious leaders.

Dr. Ilori also announced that Nigeria has lowered the age of consent for HIV testing from 18 to 14, a policy shift that brings the country closer to international standards aimed at encouraging early diagnosis and protecting youths.