By Rita Enemuru, Reporting
As Nigerians gear up for tomorrow’s Valentine’s Day celebrations, the National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA) has issued a spirited warning: celebrate love responsibly — and get tested.
In a statement released, the agency cautioned that while Valentine’s Day is often filled with romance, affection and connection, it can also bring heightened vulnerability to HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Signed by the Director-General of NACA, Dr Temitope Ilori, the advisory urged Nigerians not to let roses and romance cloud their judgement.
Valentine’s Day 2025 at 911 Ogidigben
“As we mark Valentine’s Day, the National Agency for the Control of AIDS calls on everyone to celebrate love responsibly by taking deliberate steps to prevent HIV and other sexually transmitted infections,” the statement read.
“Protecting your health and that of your partner remains one of the greatest expressions of love.”
💡 “Know Your Status Before You Know Their Heart”
Central to NACA’s message is a simple but powerful call: know your HIV status.
Dr Ilori encouraged Nigerians to undergo HIV testing and to have open conversations with their partners.
“Let love be guided by responsibility. Knowing your HIV status and protecting yourself and others is a powerful way to show you care,” she stated.
The agency warned that poor decisions — including unprotected sex and substance abuse — could have lasting consequences long after the Valentine’s chocolates are gone.
📊 Nigeria’s HIV Reality Check
Earlier in 2025, NACA disclosed that Nigeria’s HIV prevalence rate among persons aged 15–49 stands at approximately 1.3–1.4 per cent, with about 1.9 million Nigerians currently living with HIV.
This places Nigeria among 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 hubs including Lagos and the Federal Capital Territory also report significant case counts.
❤️ Romance with Responsibility
Valentine’s Day, celebrated annually on 14 February, may not be a public holiday in Nigeria, but it remains one of the most commercially vibrant and socially celebrated days of the year.
However, NACA insists that beyond flowers, candlelit dinners and social media declarations, Nigerians must prioritise their health.
The agency reaffirmed that informed choices and regular testing are crucial to achieving the national goal of ending new HIV infections.
As the message from NACA rings loud and clear this season:
Before you say “Be Mine”, make sure you know your status.
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