AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF), a Los Angeles-based global non-profit organisation, has promised to establish Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI) clinics in Benue and Abuja by June, this year. The Advocacy and Marketing Manager, Mr Steve Aborishade, made this known on Tuesday in Makurdi during an event to mark the 2024 International Condom Day (ICD).
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that ICD is annually celebrated on February 13, strategically a day before Valentine’s Day,
to emphasise the message of responsible and safe sexual behaviour.
The objective of the day is to empower individuals to make informed choices about their sexual health, foster open communication about safer sex practices and contribute to global efforts toward combating the spread of STIs.
Aborishade, who said that “some people don’t even know they have STI; therefore, it is necessary to be tested and have access to counselling, treatment and testing against the disease.”
The programme manager, who noted that the ICD is strategic, as February 14, which is Valentine Day, is a celebration of love, added: “We know what happens among young people on Valentines Day.
“A lot of extra marital activities and sexual relationships take place; we advise abstinence from sex, but it is also necessary to also preach condom use.”
The AHF Prevention Coordinator in Benue, Amina Iyaji-Abiche, who also spoke at the programme, said “condoms are to be used consistently and properly for the right persons.”
She said AHF is in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and other bodies to enable access to treatment of STIs in the state.
The Commissioner for Women Affairs, Mrs Ann Itodo, appreciated the foundation for organising the programme, saying “we would also collaborate with AHF to mark the forthcoming International Women’s
Day.
NAN reports that partners like APIN, BENSACA, and Network of Youth Organisations were also part of a walk from AHF office to Tito gate, Makurdi.
