By Tobias Lengnan Dapam
AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF), said it will establish Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI) clinics in Benue and Abuja by June.
AHF Advocacy and Marketing Manager Mr Steve Aborishade, stated this on Tuesday in Makurdi during an event to
mark the 2024 International Condom Day (ICD).
The day was significant to empower individuals to make informed choices about their sexual health, foster open communication
about safer sex practices and help in combating the spread of STIs.
“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.”
He said WCD is strategic, as Feb. 14 which is Valentine Day, is a celebration of love, saying “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 necessary to also preach condom use.”
On his part, 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.
Also speaking, 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.
