Fasilat Oluwuyi
The Wife of the Ogun State Governor, Mrs Bamidele Abiodun has advised students of Moshood Abiola Polytechnic to share love amongst themselves and not the deadly HIV virus.
The first lady gave the charge at the 2020 Valentine’s Day HIV/AIDS awareness campaign organised by Ogun State Agency for the control of AIDS(OGUNSACA) in Moshood Abiola Polytechnic Abeokuta.
She noted that it is important
for the youths to be aware of HIV/AIDS and the health implication of drug abuse, smoking,drinking as well as engaging in illicit sex.
Mrs Abiodun said it is sadden that only one of six young people know their HIV status in the country.
She also disclosed that one in seven million young person’s get their first sexual experience from the age of 15years and are of the habit of having multiple sexual patners which increases their HIV venerability.
"Knowing your HIV status is important for your future,for your health and that of your loved ones.Knowlege is power,It is important that we listen to the advice and information that is given on HIV such that you don’t become a victim of HIV transmission."
She stated that the HIV virus is currently highest among the young people between the age 15 to 24 years adding that the virus can be reduced among Nigeria youths by encouraging faithful relationships for those who can’t abstain from sex and the use of certain protection such as condom which prevent sexually transmitted diseases and unwanted pregnancies.
"We want to use this season of love to encourage Nigerians especially young people to know their HIV status"
She also urged them to understand the essence of Valentine’s day and promote positive activities among their peers.
According to her, Valentine’s day symbolises love,peace as well as unity in relationship across different age groups all over the world.
She admonished them to inculcate the 10 10 10 rules in making decisions so as to avoid risky behavior in the future and share love among themselves not the HIV virus.
"Young people must avoid risky behavior that will jeopardize their future you must use the 10 10 10 rules when you want to make a decision.
"As the youth enjoy and spread love on this day remember to share love as a member of a wider society your health and productivity is vital to the future of our country.So I urge you to avoid risky behavior as we commemorate Valentine’s day.Share love not HIV get the HIV test done today"
The acting rector of Moshood Abiola Polytechnic,Adeoye Odedeji in his goodwill message, lauded Governor Dapo Abiodun for rescuing the Institution out of its long term problems which had affected both administrative and academic activities in the Institution describing him as “the Moses of our time”.
Odedeji appreciated the Wife of the Governor for her time and concern for the welfare of the youths in the state and most especially Mapoly Students.
