Press Release

Love Wisely, Share Love not HIV: Valentine 2019

1 Mins read

Abuja, 11th February 2019:  The Director General, National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA) Dr. Sani Aliyu wants to use this season of love to encourage Nigerians, especially young people, to know their HIV status. It is concerning that only one of six young people know their HIV status in this country. “Knowing your HIV status is important for your future health and that of your loved ones”

The DG noted that about one in seven young persons in Nigeria experience their first sexual contact by the age of 15 years. This, together with the practice of having multiple sexual partners increases HIV vulnerability among youths.  The DG states 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, and the use of barrier protection such as condoms, which prevent Sexually Transmitted Diseases including HIV and unwanted pregnancies.”

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 risky behavior that will make them vulnerable to HIV/AIDS and other STDs.

The DG, Dr. Sani Aliyu stated that “As we express love on this day, remember to Love Wisely. As members of the wider society, your health and productivity is vital to the future of our country. So, I urge you to avoid risky behaviors as we commemorate Valentine’s Day. Love Wisely, Share Love not HIV. Get a HIV test today.”

Happy Valentine’s Day!

Media Contacts: Toyin Aderibigbe, Head, Public Relations and Protocol, NACA. Tel: +234 (0) 7036611266, Email: taderibigbe@naca.gov.ng

Related posts
Press Release

HSCL To Unveil Achievements and Insights From the Nigeria State-Led Strategic Purchasing for Family Planning, Maternal, Newborn and Child Health Project in Nigeria

2 Mins read
Health Systems Consult Limited (HSCL), a leading health and development consulting firm, committed to improving health systems in Nigeria, is set to…
Press Release

Nigerian Healthcare Excellence Award (NHEA) 2024 Nominations Now Open!

2 Mins read
The Nigerian Healthcare Excellence Award (NHEA) is thrilled to announce the commencement of nominations for the highly anticipated NHEA 2024. Dr. Wale…
Press Release

Strategic Partnership Between Nigeria's NBSC and HemoClear B.V. Aims to Tackle Global Blood Transfusion Shortages

2 Mins read
In a significant move towards improving global healthcare, the National Blood Service Commission (NBSC) of Nigeria and Netherlands-based HemoClear B.V. are pleased…

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *