Senator Oluremi Tinubu, CON, First Lady of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, on Tuesday officially flagged off the South-East rollout of the Free to Shine campaign, an advocacy effort designed to eliminate mother-to-child transmission of HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis.

The initiative, championed by the Organization of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD), aims to strengthen community-led health responses, improve maternal and child health outcomes, and scale access to early testing and treatment across Nigeria.

The event brought together key government leaders, development partners, and advocates.

Dr. Nardos Bekele-Thomas, Executive Secretary of OAFLAD, delivered a broader overview of the continental campaign and its significance.

The campaign’s strategic framework was outlined in a presentation by Dr. Chioma, who stressed the importance of testing, treatment, and reporting: “Find all. Test all. Treat all. Report all.” 

Voices from the HIV community were also heard. Survivors shared stories of resilience and hope, highlighting the importance of destigmatising the virus and maintaining access to care.

Goodwill messages followed from Dr. Temitope Ilori, Director-General of the National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA); Chukwumanya Igwekwu of the World Health Organization; and UNICEF’s Adaoha Anosike.

The Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, delivered remarks highlighting Nigeria’s national efforts to bridge healthcare access gaps and eliminate preventable infections. He underscored the importance of aligning policy with inclusive outcomes and reaffirmed the federal government’s commitment to maternal and child health.

Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah, the Executive Governor of Enugu State described the Free to Shine campaign as “a beacon of hope.” He reiterated his administration’s commitment to reducing maternal and infant mortality in Enugu State through the rollout of upgraded primary healthcare centres and affirmed full support for the First Lady’s drive to end these diseases by 2030. “This campaign is about lives and dignity,” he said, “giving every woman and child the chance to thrive without fear or discrimination.”

In her welcome address, Mrs. Nkechinyere Mbah, First Lady of Enugu State, expressed confidence in the campaign’s impact and pledged the state’s full support. “Collaboration is the driving force of change. When we join hands across sectors and levels, we can change the narrative,” she said.

The First Lady of Nigeria delivered a stirring keynote as she flagged off the zonal campaign. She urged stakeholders to take the message forward with purpose and ensure that no child is born into preventable suffering.