As Nigerians prepare to celebrate Valentine’s Day alongside millions around the world, the Director-General of the National Agency for the Control of AIDS, Dr Temitope Ilori, has urged citizens to make responsible choices and avoid behaviours that could expose them to HIV and other sexually transmitted infections.
In a Valentine’s message released in Abuja, Ilori called on young people in particular to know their HIV status and steer clear of risky activities during the season of love.
She encouraged Nigerians to celebrate with care, stressing that genuine affection should go hand in hand with responsibility.
“Let love be guided by responsibility. Knowing your status and protecting yourself and others is a powerful way to show you care,” she said.
The NACA boss advised couples and individuals to get tested and to openly encourage their partners to do the same. She also highlighted the importance of practising safe sex through the consistent and correct use of condoms, describing it as a simple but vital step in protecting one’s health and that of a partner.
Ilori warned against behaviours that heighten the risk of HIV transmission, including having multiple sexual partners, engaging in transactional sex, and excessive consumption of alcohol or other substances that can impair judgment.
She further urged Nigerians to take advantage of HIV prevention, treatment and counselling services available at government health facilities across the country. According to her, the agency remains committed to expanding access to quality HIV care and support as part of Nigeria’s drive to end new infections.
“Valentine’s Day is a time for connection and affection, but it should also be an opportunity to demonstrate care through responsible choices,” Ilori added, noting that health and safety are central to meaningful relationships.
She reminded the public that more information on HIV prevention, testing and treatment can be accessed through NACA’s website and its toll-free HIV helpline, 6222.
Health experts have often expressed concern about risky behaviours sometimes linked to Valentine’s Day celebrations, especially among young people. NACA’s message, therefore, serves as a timely reminder that responsible intimacy is not only an act of love but also a commitment to protecting oneself, one’s partner and the wider community.
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