Speaking at the 2025 World AIDS Day commemoration at the State House Banquet Hall, Abuja, the First Lady described the day as “an opportunity for reflection, gratitude, and renewed commitment,” and stressed that Nigeria must sustain momentum after years of notable progress in prevention, treatment, and care.
Despite achievements through partnerships with global donors, she warned that stigma and discrimination continue to hinder the national response, urging Nigerians to “confront the judgment and exclusion that still surrounds HIV/AIDS” and ensure affected individuals are treated with dignity.
Senator Tinubu highlighted recent strides under the national HIV response, including the elimination of vertical transmission, expanded paediatric treatment, and enhanced long-term sustainability.
She noted that support from the Global Fund and the National AIDS and STDs Control Programme (NASCP) had delivered “significant progress,” particularly in protecting mothers and children.
The First Lady spotlighted the Free to Shine Campaign, launched nationwide by the Organisation of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD), which promotes the triple elimination of HIV, hepatitis, and syphilis by 2030.
She said the initiative underscores Africa’s political will to safeguard women and children through early testing, timely treatment, and stigma reduction.
“We are moving steadily towards the global target of eliminating mother-to-child transmission of HIV, syphilis, and hepatitis B by 2030,” she said, citing health service integration and efficient resource use as key drivers of progress.
However, she cautioned that Nigeria’s HIV response remains heavily donor-dependent, stressing the need for sustainable interventions as international funding patterns shift.
She welcomed the Federal Government’s approval of $200 million to support HIV, tuberculosis, and malaria programmes, and noted that NACA had deepened engagements with state governments to ensure “long-term ownership and continuity” of interventions.
Calling for national solidarity, the First Lady urged citizens to support the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
She commended the Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate; the Director-General of NACA, Dr. Temitope Ilori; NASCP; development partners; civil society organisations; and traditional and religious leaders for sustaining Nigeria’s HIV response.
Senator Tinubu also appealed to families, teachers, and young people, emphasising open conversations and responsible health behaviour.
“HIV/AIDS is no longer a disease of shame. To our young people, take responsibility for your health—get tested and know your status. To our communities, let us foster a culture of love, acceptance, and support,” she said.
