Valentine’s Day: Agency Urges Nigerians To Know Their HIV Status, Celebrate Responsibly

National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA) has called on Nigerians to celebrate Valentine’s Day responsibly by making choices that protect their health and reduce vulnerability to HIV and other sexually transmitted infections.

The director-general of NACA, Dr Temitope Ilori, in a statement yesterday, said the season of love often comes with increased risk-taking behaviour, making it important for individuals to prioritise their wellbeing and that of their partners.

Ilori urged Nigerians to see responsible sexual behaviour as an act of love, stressing that knowing one’s HIV status and taking preventive measures are crucial steps toward safeguarding the future.

“Let love be guided by responsibility. Knowing your status and protecting yourself and others is a powerful way to show you care,” she said.

NACA advised members of the public to get tested for HIV, use condoms correctly and consistently, avoid multiple sexual partners, and steer clear of transactional sex.

The agency also warned against excessive alcohol or substance use, which can impair judgment and lead to risky sexual behaviour.

The Agency encouraged Nigerians to access HIV prevention, treatment and counselling services at government health facilities nationwide, adding that it remains committed to expanding access to quality care and support services.