The Federal Government through the National Agency for the Control of AIDS has urged Nigerian youths to know their HIV status and avoid risky behaviours during the valentine season.
This is as the Director-General of NACA, Dr Gambo Aliyu, added that new HIV infection is currently highest among young people between ages 15-24.
This was disclosed in a statement signed by the Head of Protocols and Public Relations of the agency, Toyin Aderibigbe.
The statement which was made available to our correspondent in Abuja partly reads, “The Director-General, National Agency for the Control of AIDS, Dr Gambo Aliyu, wants to use this season of love to encourage Nigerians, especially young people, to know their HIV status and avoid risky behaviours.
The DG was quoted as saying that “New HIV infection is currently highest among young people aged 15-24 years. It is important to reduce this worrying trend among Nigerian youths by encouraging faithful relationships for those who cannot abstain from sex to practice safer sex.
“This period is particularly noted for young people expressing their love for one another. The DG NACA urges Nigerians, especially the youths, to express love within the context of caring deeply for their loved ones and avoid behaviours that will make them vulnerable to HIV/AIDS.
“As we express love on this day, remember to love wisely. As members of the wider society, your health and productivity are vital to the future of our country. So, I urge you to avoid risky behaviours as we commemorate Valentine’s Day. Love Wisely, Share Love not HIV. Get an HIV test today,” Aliyu added.
Copyright PUNCH.
All rights reserved. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express written permission from PUNCH.
Contact: [email protected]
