As Nigerians prepare for Valentine’s Day celebrations, the National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA) has cautioned citizens against engaging in risky sexual behaviour and urged them to prioritise HIV testing.
In a statement issued on Wednesday and signed by its Director General, Temitope Ilori, the agency noted that while the season is associated with affection and connection, it can also increase vulnerability to HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs). It warned that poor choices, including unprotected sex and substance abuse, could have long-term consequences.
“As we mark Valentine’s Day, NACA calls on everyone to celebrate love responsibly by taking deliberate steps to prevent HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs),” the statement read. “Protecting your health and that of your partner remains one of the greatest expressions of love.”
Valentine’s Day is celebrated globally on 14 February as a day dedicated to love and affection, although it is not recognised as a public holiday in Nigeria.
Know Your HIV Status
Central to NACA’s advisory is the call for Nigerians to know their HIV status.
Mrs Ilori encouraged individuals to get tested and to motivate their partners to do the same, stressing the importance of making informed decisions that protect their health and 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, adding that responsible behaviour would also support the national goal of ending new HIV infections.
HIV Burden in Nigeria
Earlier in 2025, the agency revealed that recent estimates put HIV prevalence among Nigerians aged 15–49 at about 1.3–1.4 per cent, with approximately 1.9 million people living with HIV.
Nigeria remains one of the countries with the largest HIV epidemics globally and the highest burden in West and Central Africa. States such as Rivers, Benue and Akwa Ibom record some of the highest numbers of people living with HIV, while urban centres including Lagos and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) also report significant case counts.
Avoid Multiple Partners, Substance Abuse
Beyond testing, NACA advised Nigerians to practise safe sex by using condoms consistently and correctly. It warned against having multiple sexual partners and engaging in transactional sex, noting that such behaviours increase the risk of HIV transmission.
The agency also cautioned against excessive alcohol consumption and substance use, which can impair judgement and lead to unsafe decisions.
NACA encouraged Nigerians to take advantage of HIV prevention, treatment and counselling services available at government health facilities nationwide. It reiterated its commitment to expanding access to quality HIV prevention, treatment, care and support services across the country.
For more information, members of the public are advised to visit the agency’s website or call the HIV toll-free line, 6222.