The World Health Organization (WHO) has commended Nigeria’s leadership in advancing maternal and child health as the country officially launched the Organization of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD) Free to Shine Campaign in the South-South region.
The initiative aims to eliminate mother-to-child transmission of HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, and Syphilis.
Speaking at the launch event in Asaba, Delta State, on Wednesday, WHO Representative to Nigeria, Dr. Walter Kazadi Mulombo, praised the country’s progress in implementing the campaign across multiple regions. He highlighted Nigeria’s unwavering commitment to ending vertical transmission of infectious diseases and emphasized the critical role of national leadership in achieving public health goals.
“The Free to Shine Campaign has now reached its third region in Nigeria, demonstrating strong national dedication to protecting mothers and children,” Dr. Mulombo stated. “The integration of preventive strategies, including increased testing, prophylaxis for exposed infants, and maternal health programs, will significantly improve health outcomes.”
Dr. Mulombo also announced that WHO had invited Nigeria’s First Lady, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, to serve as a Champion for Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR), recognizing the country’s commitment to global health efforts. Nigeria is set to host the 2026 High-Level Ministerial Conference on AMR, reinforcing its leadership in tackling the growing threat of drug-resistant infections.
As the campaign expands, WHO is urging stakeholders to adopt client-centered approaches tailored to the needs of women and children, particularly in underserved communities. “We must ensure comprehensive services, including safe delivery practices, Hepatitis B birth dose vaccination, and routine immunization, are integrated into maternal and child health programs,” Dr. Mulombo said.
He further emphasized the need to empower women through education, counselling, and access to reproductive health services to reduce transmission risks and strengthen community health systems.
WHO remains committed to supporting Nigeria’s efforts in eliminating mother-to-child transmission and enhancing maternal and child health outcomes across the country.
