Nigeria Flags Off ‘Free To Shine’ Campaign In South-South
Princess-Ekwi Ajide
Nigeria is making significant strides in public health, particularly in the fight against mother-to-child transmission of HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, and Syphilis.
With two geopolitical zones already adopting the Free to Shine Campaign, the South-South now joins the movement, marking another milestone in the country’s commitment to eliminating preventable diseases among women and children.
The Dome Event Center in Asaba, Delta State, was a gathering point for key stakeholders in health advocacy as Nigeria officially launched the Free to Shine Campaign in the South-South.
The event was a reinforcement of Nigeria’s determination to eliminate mother-to-child transmission of HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, and Syphilis.
WHO’s Representative, Dr. Walter Kazadi Mulombo, praised Nigeria’s sustained efforts, stating that if the momentum is maintained, the country is on track for success.
He said this campaign is more than just a health initiative but a movement ensuring that no child is born with HIV, no mother loses her life to preventable diseases, and every woman receives the care she deserves.
With Delta State Governor Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, the First Lady of Delta State Mrs. Tobore Oborevwori, and other dignitaries in attendance, the launch underscored the need for region-specific interventions.
WHO and partners highlighted key action points: expanding testing, ensuring timely treatment, and integrating maternal health services with immunisation programmes.
In a special recognition, WHO invited First Lady Oluremi Tinubu to champion the fight against Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR), as Nigeria prepares to host the 2026 High-Level Ministerial Conference on AMR.
As the campaign takes root in the South-South, stakeholders reaffirmed their commitment to making Nigeria “Free to Shine.
