The National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA) on Friday advised Nigerians to avoid engaging in risky behaviour especially during Valentine’s Day celebrations.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that this year’s Valentine Day is coming up on Tuesday, Feb. 14.

Mrs Toyin Aderibigbe, Head, Corporate Communication Unit of the agency, gave the advice in a statement made available to NAN in Abuja.

Aderibigbe described the Day as a season of affection, and appealed for the need to share and show love responsibly.

She added that by behaving responsibly we can halt and reverse the spread of HIV and AIDS in Nigeria.

“It is important that young people  are equipped with information to ensure that Valentine’s Day is celebrated by showing love to those we care about in a safe and responsible manner.

“As we celebrate love, we should remember that safe sex is not just about protecting ourselves, but also protecting those we love,’’ she said.

She also quoted Dr Sani Aliyu, the Director-General of the agency, saying that the day is a special day for love.

Aliyu advised that in the process of loving; love carefully, play safe and be faithful to your partner.

“If you are young and not sexually active yet, abstaining from sex will keep you safe from sexually transmitted diseases including HIV, otherwise protect yourself by using a condom at all times,’’ he said.

While urging Nigerians to embrace HIV testing to know their status, the director-general renewed the commitment of the agency to provide treatment to the people found to be living with the virus.

“If you do happen to carry the virus, we can give you treatment that will keep you healthy and stop you from spreading the virus to your loved one.

“So get a HIV test today and stay safe on Valentine’s Day,’’ he said. (NAN)