As part of activities marking the International Condoms Day, AIDS Healthcare Foundation in Nigeria, on Tuesday, distributed 100,000 condoms to people in Makurdi, Benue.
The non-governmental organisation also rendered free HIV/AIDS testing and counseling to 3,000 persons.
The AHF site coordinator of ART Clinician and HIV in Nigeria, Dr. Shuaibu Joseph, disclosed this during the International Condom Day celebration organised by AHF in Makurdi.
Joseph stated that the International Condom Day is usually celebrated on February 13th as a global event, a day before Valentine’s Day in a bid to promote prevention of STDs, including HIV and unwanted pregnancies through free condom distribution, safer sex awareness events and HIV Testing Services.
He said AHF has been working in seven local government areas of Benue State, conducting voluntary HIV tests and counseling, offering sex education and distributing condoms to encourage safe sexual practices in the rural areas.
In his remark, the Executive Secretary, Benue State Agency for the Control of AIDS, Dr. Dura Gideon, said everyone must be involved in the fight against HIV/AIDS in the state.
Dura, who was represented by Mrs. Regina Ameh, advised people to abstain from oral sex, while they should use condom which can prevent STDs, including HIV, and unwanted pregnancies when used properly.
“One of the major ways to be infected by HIV/AIDS is through sex; therefore, to avoid contacting HIV, use condom.
“Condom has become fashionable; so, go about with your condoms if you are sexually active.
“Even despite a stable relationship, you must use condoms to prevent STD and unwanted pregnancy,” he counselled.
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