AHF Urges Renewed Condom Use As STI Rates Rise

AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) Nigeria has called for renewed attention to condom use as a proven and cost-effective tool for preventing HIV, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and unplanned pregnancies, as it marks the 2026 International Condom Day (ICD).

The annual event, celebrated globally on February 13, is holding activities in Akwa, Anambra State, and at the University of Abuja, under the theme “Just Use It!” The programme combines public awareness campaigns, education, and free distribution of condoms to promote safe and stigma-free sexual health practices.

AHF Nigeria said the rising incidence of STIs worldwide, particularly syphilis, reflects declining global funding and reduced prioritisation of prevention tools such as condoms. The organisation warned that without urgent intervention, gains made in the global HIV response could be reversed.

As part of the celebrations, AHF will distribute its branded Love and Icon condoms, alongside condom education, free HIV testing, and STI screening services.

In Akwa, Anambra State, AHF and its partners will organise a road walk on February 12, during which condoms will be distributed and members of the public offered HIV testing and sexual health education. On February 13, attention will shift to Abuja, where students of the Faculty of Media and Communication Studies, University of Abuja, will participate in a prevention symposium focused on curbing the rising rates of STIs and new HIV infections. The AHF Abuja Wellness Centre will also provide free STI screening.

Speaking on the importance of prevention, Martin Matabishi, AHF Africa Bureau Chief, said shrinking donor funding has made affordable prevention strategies more critical than ever.

“Condoms are cheap, effective, and proven, yet access remains limited and stigma persists. Governments must increase domestic health financing and remove barriers to access, otherwise the cost will be higher infections, higher treatment costs, and avoidable loss of lives,” he said.

Also speaking, Dr. Echey Ijezie, AHF Nigeria Country Programme Director, stressed that condom use remains the most reliable and economical means of preventing HIV, other STIs, and unintended pregnancies.

International Condom Day, launched by AHF in 2009, aims to keep condoms at the centre of global sexual health efforts, reinforcing their role as a safe and effective prevention tool.