By Sunday Apah
Senator Oluremi Tinubu, Nigeria’s First Lady and spouse of the President, on Tuesday, called for the implementation of free treatment programs for patients living with Human Immunodeficiency Virus/Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (HIV/AIDS) across the nation.
During her visit to the Delta State Traditional Rulers Council in Asaba, she underscored the significant impact of HIV/AIDS, particularly among young people.
Senator Tinubu urged traditional leaders to play an active role in raising awareness and advocating for crucial health initiatives, such as the eradication of female genital mutilation.
She introduced an education-focused campaign named “Flow with Confidence,” which aims to distribute free sanitary pads to girls in rural areas to help prevent school absences during menstruation.
The First Lady stated further that she had secured substantial funding for tuberculosis treatment, highlighting her dedication to community support through donations and advocacy efforts.
At the event, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori noted that the First Lady’s presence in Delta State was to distribute 10,000 professional kits—including Crocs and scrubs—to midwives in the South-South region, as part of her health-focused Renewed Hope Initiative.
“This commendable program has already been rolled out in the North-Central and North-West geopolitical zones of the country,” Oborevwori stated.
“Today marks the commencement of the initiative in the South-South region, with Delta State chosen as the launching point for the Niger Delta.”
He added that the First Lady would later join the Organisation of African First Ladies for Development to kick off the Free-to-Shine initiative—an awareness campaign aimed at addressing HIV/AIDS and other public health challenges affecting women of reproductive age in the South-South region.
Praising the First Lady for her outreach efforts, the Chairman of Delta State Traditional Rulers Council and Orodje of Okpe Kingdom, HRM Maj Gen Felix Mujakperuo, expressed admiration for her visit.
He also acknowledged President Bola Tinubu for the ongoing construction of several road projects in the state, including the Benin-Asaba Expressway, the Benin-Warri Expressway, and the Access Road to the Second Niger Bridge.
“We take pride in your virtues and your steadfast support of your husband, which has enabled him to navigate the political landscape to become President,” Mujakperuo said.
“Deltans hold our in-laws in high regard. Just yesterday, our local leader, the Asagba of Asaba, Obi Professor Epiphany Azinge, shared that the President referred to Governor Oborevwori as a progressive leader, showing that he is keenly aware of his activities.”
Mujakperuo also noted that Senator David Umahi, the Honorable Minister for Works, commended Governor Oborevwori as a diligent leader who has transformed Delta State into a bustling hub of construction.
“Given these accomplishments, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori deserves a second term to ensure these projects are completed,” Mujakperuo declared.
“We appreciate your concern for young women across Nigeria. We have closely followed your work and take great pride in your initiatives.”
Mrs. Tinubu and her delegation were warmly welcomed upon their arrival at the Asaba International Airport by Governor Oborevwori, his wife, Deputy Governor Sir Monday Onyeme, and a large assembly of Deltans.
