By Jemimah Wellington, JKNewsMedia Reporter
PUSH FOR free Human Immunodeficiency Virus/Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (HIV/AIDS) treatment took centre as Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, launches Women’s Health Initiatives in Delta State.
Advocating for improved healthcare access, she urged for the implementation of free treatment programmes for individuals affected by HIV/AIDS nationwide.
Addressing the Delta State Traditional Rulers Council in Asaba on Tuesday, she stressed the severe impact of the disease, particularly on young people, and called on traditional rulers to amplify awareness on critical health issues, including the eradication of female genital mutilation.
During her visit, Tinubu also highlighted the ‘Flow with Confidence’ campaign, which she noted aims to reduce school absenteeism among girls in rural areas by providing free sanitary pads.
She also announced having secured substantial funding for tuberculosis treatment as part of her broader commitment to public health advocacy.
Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, commended the First Lady’s efforts, noting that she was in the state to distribute 10,000 professional kits — comprising Crocs and scrubs — to midwives across the South-South region under her Renewed Hope Initiative.
He acknowledged the programme’s prior successes in North-Central and North-West Nigeria and expressed appreciation for its expansion to the Niger Delta.
Governor Oborevwori further revealed that on Wednesday, the First Lady, in partnership with the Organisation of African First Ladies for Development, would inaugurate the Free-to-Shine initiative for the South-South region.
This campaign is designed to tackle the HIV/AIDS epidemic and other pressing public health challenges affecting women of reproductive age.
The Chairman of the Delta State Traditional Rulers Council, HRM Maj Gen Felix Mujakperuo, praised Tinubu’s dedication to improving women’s healthcare.
He also commended President Bola Tinubu’s administration for its infrastructural strides, particularly the ongoing construction of key road networks, including the Benin-Asaba Expressway, Benin-Warri Expressway, and the access road to the Second Niger Bridge.
Expressing admiration for Tinubu’s resilience, Mujakperuo lauded her unwavering support for her husband’s political journey.
He reassured her of Delta State’s respect and support, citing President Tinubu’s positive recognition of Governor Oborevwori’s progressive leadership.
Asaba International Airport played host to the First Lady’s arrival, where she was warmly received by Governor Oborevwori, his wife, Deputy Governor Sir Monday Onyeme, and a large contingent of enthusiastic Delta residents.
