NGSACA, ACOMIN, Mark International Condom Day with Youth Sensitization at ACOMIN office.
Dr. Michael Onyilo, representing the Director General, Niger State Agency for the Control of AIDS, visited a partner organization to distribute condoms during the one day commemoration of International day of condoms at ACOMN state office.
This initiative is part of an ongoing collaborative effort to combat the spread of HIV in the region.
International Condom Day
The visit is to celebrate our partners and also celebrate with ACOMIN as they celebrate International Condom day, a global observance dedicated to promoting HIV prevention and safe sexual health practices.
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Dr. Onilo emphasized that while condoms are a primary focus, the day serves a broader purpose of raising general awareness about HIV prevention.
Strategic Timing (Valentine’s Day)
The speaker noted the strategic importance of the date, occurring just before Valentine’s Day. He highlighted that:
* The agency aims to provide preventive measures ahead of celebrations that may involve risky behaviors.
* The goal is not to encourage such behaviors but to ensure protection is available for those at risk.
Target Demographic
The distribution efforts are specifically tailored toward the youth population, whom the agency identifies as the group most vulnerable and disproportionately affected by the HIV epidemic.
Long-term Goals
Dr. Onyilo expressed gratitude for the partnership and reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to the global goal of zero new HIV infections by 2030.
During the event, the State ACOMIN coordinator Mr Kalejaiye Olasunkanmi said today, International Condom Day, presents a timely opportunity to engage young people in honest conversations about sexual health—without judgment or shame, but with facts, responsibility, and self-respect.
To commemorate the day, ACOMIN, in partnership with the Niger State Agency for the Control of AIDS (NGSACA), organized a one-day enlightenment and sensitization activity aimed at educating young people on the importance of safe sexual practices.
Speaking during the event, Mr. Kalejaiye Olasunkanmi, State Coordinator of the Association of Civil Society in Malaria Control, Immunization, and Nutrition (ACOMIN), encouraged youths to play safe, especially during the Valentine season, by taking advantage of the awareness created around International Condom Day.
Mr. Kalejaiye explained that the partnership between ACOMIN and SACA is targeted at ensuring that young people are well-informed, sensitized, and empowered to become change ambassadors for safe and responsible sexual behavior within their communities.
He urged youths to advocate for condom use and to see condoms as a tool for life planning, emphasizing that adolescence and youth are critical stages where proper planning and focus are essential for a successful future.
According to him, while abstinence remains the safest option, condom use is the best protective choice for those who choose to be sexually active.
“Being young is about dreams, energy, and big plans for the future,” Kalejaiye said. “Playing safe helps protect all of that. Condoms are a simple and smart way to prevent HIV, other sexually transmitted infections, and unplanned pregnancies. Choosing to use one isn’t fear—it’s confidence. It shows you care about your health and your partner’s too.”
He further called for the normalization of conversations around condom use, noting that:
Using condoms is responsible, not embarrassing
Carrying protection is smart, not reckless. Saying ‘let’s play safe’ is strong, not awkward
Mr. Kalejaiye concluded by reminding young people that their bodies, futures, and goals are worth protecting.
“Your body, your choice, protect it. Your future and dreams, guard them. On this International Condom Day, let us break myths, spread facts, and choose protection every time. Play safe. Stay informed. Celebrate life.”
(DEMOCRACY NEWSLINE NEWSPAPER, FEBRUARY 13TH 2026)
