The National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA), Dr. Gambo Aliyu has advised young Nigerians to know their HIV status and avoid risky behaviours in celebration of Valentine’s Day.

NACA’s Director General, Dr. Gambo Aliyu in a Valentine’s Day message in Abuja, Friday, mentioned that “HIV infection is currently highest among young people aged 15-24 years.”

He warned youths to love wisely this period by sharing love and avoiding any behavior that’ll make them vulnerable to HIV.

According to him,“It is important to reduce this worrying trend among Nigerian youths by encouraging faithful relationships for those who cannot abstain from sex to practice safer sex.

“This period is noted for young people to express their love for one another, I urge Nigerians, especially the youths, to express love within the context of caring deeply for their loved ones and avoid behavior that will make them vulnerable to HIV/AIDS.”

Aliyu stressed that health and productivity were vital to the future of Nigerians.

“So, I urge you to avoid risky behaviors as we commemorate Valentine’s Day. Love Wisely, Share Love not HIV. Get a HIV test today,” he said.