The AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) Nigeria has emphasized that prioritizing condom use is a crucial step toward ending HIV/AIDS in society. The organization warned that the decline in condom usage has contributed to the rising prevalence of HIV/AIDS and other Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs), making prevention efforts more challenging.
In a statement marking International Condom Day (ICD), AHF Nigeria reaffirmed that achieving the global goal of ending HIV/AIDS is impossible without promoting condoms as a key preventive tool.
As part of its advocacy, AHF Nigeria announced that it will launch a nationwide testing campaign and distribute free condoms across Benue, Abuja, and five other states to encourage safer sexual practices.
Call for Affordable and Accessible Condoms
The organization also criticized the high cost of condoms, citing that labeling them as medical devices has further driven up prices, making them less accessible to many people. AHF urged governments and stakeholders to eliminate barriers to condom affordability and prioritize funding to ensure wider access.
Dr. Echey Ijezie, AHF Nigeria Country Program Director, reiterated the importance of condom use, stating:
> “We’re reminding everyone that using condoms is the best way to prevent HIV, other STIs, and unplanned pregnancies. AHF created this day (ICD) to promote safer sex and make condoms accessible for all. When used correctly, condoms provide effective protection for you and your partner. So, no excuses—wrap it up every time.”
Similarly, Dr. Penninah Lutung, AHF Africa Bureau Chief, highlighted the need for urgent action:
> “Condoms are the most cost-effective method of protection against HIV and other STIs, yet many Africans lack access due to stockouts, unaffordable prices, and high taxation. This International Condom Day, we call on governments and stakeholders to remove these barriers, prioritize funding, and ensure free or affordable condoms for all who need them.”
ICD Commemoration in Nigeria
AHF Nigeria has invited the public to participate in ICD activities, which will be commemorated in Lokoja, Kogi State, on February 13. The event will feature:
Exciting activities to promote safe sex awareness
Free condom distribution
Educational sessions on proper condom use
To raise awareness, AHF Nigeria will also organize a road walk in Kogi State, involving:
Students from higher institutions
Civil society organizations
The National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW)
Officials from the Kogi State Ministry of Health and the State Agency for the Control of AIDS
The walk will begin at the Kogi State Ministry of Health, passing through major landmarks such as the Post Office, Ganaja Bridge, and Specialist Hospital, before concluding at the Federal University Lokoja.
Nationwide Testing and Awareness Campaigns
In addition to the Lokoja event, AHF Nigeria will conduct HIV testing and free condom distribution in its six operational states:
Abuja (FCT)
Anambra
Akwa Ibom
Benue
Cross River
Nasarawa
As part of youth engagement, young people from Kogi, Abuja, Benue, Cross River, and Nasarawa will participate in a video challenge to promote safe sex practices.
International Condom Day: Promoting Safer Sex
International Condom Day (ICD) is observed annually on February 13 to raise awareness about the importance of condoms in preventing HIV/AIDS, STIs, and unplanned pregnancies. The day also serves as a platform to advocate for greater access to sexual health resources.
AHF Nigeria reaffirmed its commitment to promoting safer sex practices and e
nsuring that condoms remain accessible and affordable for all Nigerians.
