Ahead of the looming St Valentine’s day celebration, the National Agency for the Control of AIDS have urged Nigerians to check their HIV status and protect themselves.
Valentine’s Day is celebrated on every February 14 and is a day to share love and gifts amongst friends and lovers, however, some also use the day to engage in amorous relationships.
Speaking on the dangers that loomed, NACA in a statement signed by the Head of the Public Relations and Protocol unit of the agency, Toyin Aderibigbe quoted the Director General of NACA, Dr. Gambo Aliyu as saying,
“As people celebrate love on Valentine’s Day, we want everyone to enjoy it while prioritising their well-being.
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“NACA encourages individuals to adopt a comprehensive approach to love, which includes open communication, mutual respect, and responsible choices,” Aliyu added.
He also urged the general public to incorporate protection into intimate moments, undergo regular HIV testing and engage in conversations about sexual health with their partners.
These measures, according to him, contribute not only to personal health but also to the broader goal of building safer and healthier communities.
He said, “Love is a powerful force, and by embracing responsible practices, we can ensure that it enriches our lives without compromising our health. NACA is dedicated to providing resources, information, and support to empower individuals in making informed choices.”
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Meanwhile, the agency reaffirmed its commitment to promoting a healthy and responsible celebration of love.
Aliyu said, “In light of the ongoing global health situation, NACA encourages the public to prioritise their safety and well-being while expressing affection on Valentine’s Day,” the statement noted.
NACA stated that it will conduct comprehensive awareness campaigns on Valentine’s Day to educate the public about the significance of both abstinence and safe sex practices.
“The agency aims to create an environment where love is celebrated responsibly, fostering a community that is both supportive and health-conscious”.
