A Non-Governmental Organization, AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF), has urged Nigerians, including adolescents, to ensure they know their HIV status and avoid risky behaviors.
The Country Programme Director of AHF Nigeria, Dr. Eche Ijezie, made the call on Monday during the commemoration of the 2024 World AIDS Day held in Uyo, the capital of Akwa Ibom State.
Ijezie, who emphasized abstinence from sex among adolescents and youths, noted that where abstinence was not possible, unprotected sexual acts or having multiple sexual partners should be avoided.
According to him, “We must ensure that we avoid risky sexual behaviors such as having multiple sexual partners, having unprotected sex, and a host of others. Everyone must know their status. The tests are free, and condoms are free and available. So, we encourage everyone to get tested and know their status.”
“Avoiding risky behaviors is crucial for adolescents and youths. We are also advocating for comprehensive sexuality education targeted at adolescents and young people, with the aim of preventing sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and unplanned pregnancies.”
He said that significant progress has been made over the years in fighting HIV/AIDS but added that stronger commitments are needed to address the prevalence of the virus.
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His words: “Over the years, worldwide and even in sub-Saharan Africa, statistics have fallen due to the concerted efforts of all partners and governments at all levels. Where we are now is not where we were before; a lot has improved, and many have been placed on life-saving medications and treatments. However, we are saying that the fight is not over; it is not time to rest on our laurels. It is time for people to remember that we must fight this fight to the finish.”
Mrs. Elizabeth Udoh, Akwa Ibom State Coordinator for the Network of People Living with HIV/AIDS, thanked AHF for the initiative and commended the organization for involving their partners in the commemoration.
In her words, “I say kudos to AHF for organizing this commemoration in Akwa Ibom State and for involving the youths and other partners. We are happy and we say thank you to AHF.”
Also speaking, the Executive Director of Drug-Free and Preventive Healthcare, Mrs. Grace Umosen, said, “The event was a great success. We are happy to collaborate with AHF for this event, and we commend the instructiveness of the program, especially the free HIV tests on offer and the free condoms that were distributed to the people.”
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