By Fatima Saka
The World Health Organization (WHO) has urged the Nigerian government to prioritize grassroots engagement in the fight against mother-to-child transmission of HIV/AIDS, viral hepatitis, and syphilis.
WHO Representative to Nigeria, Dr. Walter Kazadi Mulombo, made this call on Wednesday in Asaba, emphasizing the need for tailored, client-centered services. He highlighted the importance of expanding testing in both health facilities and communities, providing prophylaxis for exposed infants, and ensuring prompt treatment for infected mothers and children.
Dr. Mulombo commended Nigeria’s First Lady for her leadership in championing public health initiatives, ensuring that these efforts reach all regions and drive inclusive, impactful change.
Strengthening Maternal and Child Health, WHO underscored the urgency of the issue, noting that the launch of the Free to Shine Campaign in Nigeria’s South-South region marks a significant milestone. As the third geopolitical zone to adopt this initiative, the South-South’s participation strengthens efforts to eliminate vertical transmission and improve maternal and child health.
“This launch also presents an opportunity to integrate essential services beyond the triple elimination goal,” WHO stated. “By incorporating safe delivery practices, birth-dose vaccination against Hepatitis B, and routine immunizations into maternal health programs, we can amplify health outcomes. Additionally, empowering women through education, counseling, and access to sexual and reproductive health services while promoting gender equality and human rights—will further reduce transmission risks and foster healthier communities.”
WHO further reaffirmed its dedication to supporting Nigeria’s efforts through its Triple Elimination Initiative.
“We stand ready to partner with all 36+1 state governments to eliminate vertical transmission and enhance health outcomes for mothers and children,” the organization stated. “We call on leaders in the South-South and beyond to seize this moment, leveraging the First Lady’s public health leadership to achieve a healthier, disease-free future.”
WHO also emphasized the importance of local government financial autonomy to ensure that services reach the grassroots level effectively.
Congratulating Nigeria and the Organization of African First Ladies for Development (OAFLAD) on the initiative’s expansion, WHO expressed deep appreciation for the role of Nigeria’s First Lady, Her Excellency Oluremi Tinubu, CON.
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“This is the third zone in Nigeria to adopt the initiative, showcasing the country’s dedication to ending mother-to-child transmission of HIV/AIDS, viral hepatitis, and syphilis,” WHO stated. “Her leadership sets a powerful example for health advocacy across the nation.”
Additionally, WHO invited the First Lady to serve as a Champion for Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR), recognizing Nigeria’s upcoming role as the host of the 2026 High-Level Ministerial Conference on AMR.
“Nigeria is taking decisive action. The progress being made is significant, and if sustained, the country is well on its way to achieving success in eliminating mother-to-child transmission and strengthening public health systems.”
