Verify HIV Status of Your Side Chics, NSCDC Cautions Nigerian Men

The Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) in Gombe State, Mohammed Mu’azu, has issued a stern warning to men, urging them to confirm the HIV status of potential partners before engaging in any sexual relationships. The caution comes amidst rising concerns about the prevalence of HIV/AIDS, particularly in Gombe State.

Mu’azu highlighted the urgency during a briefing on the Command’s 2023 activities, revealing a case where an 85-year-old man enticed numerous young girls into sexual activities. Following a medical examination, both the elderly man and his four wives were confirmed HIV positive.

The NSCDC Commandant emphasized the alarming prevalence rate of HIV in Gombe State, describing it as a time bomb. He urged men to be vigilant, especially regarding partners in their window period.

Mr Mu’azu also shed light on the Command’s ongoing struggle with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) advocating for same-sex relationships and marriage, citing a recent incident where 76 individuals were arrested for hosting a “gay party” in Gombe State.

The caution aligns with the broader efforts of Nigerian authorities to curb the spread of HIV/AIDS. According to the 2019 Nigerian HIV/AIDS Indicator and Impact Survey (NAIIS), approximately 1.9 million Nigerians are affected by the disease.

In response to the crisis, the Nigerian government introduced two critical documents in 2023 to guide the nation’s efforts in eliminating HIV/AIDS by 2030. Developed by the National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA) in collaboration with local and international partners, these documents include the National HIV and AIDS Strategic Plan (2023-2027) and the Sustainability Pathway for National HIV Response (2023-2030).

The Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, emphasized the significance of these documents, reflecting a substantial commitment to achieving the global goal of epidemic control and ending HIV/AIDS by 2030, with states taking on leadership roles.