World Condom Day is celebrated on February 13th every year, by the World Health Organization and it was first observed in 2009.
By Nakanda Iyadim
As the world marks the 2025 World Condom Day, the Director General of the Cross River State Agency for the Control of AIDS (CR-SACA), Dr Charles Iwara, has emphasized the crucial role of proper and correct condom use in preventing HIV/AIDS among sexually active populations in the state.
Addressing newsmen during a citywide sensitization rally organized by the Agency and its partner, AIDS Healthcare International to commemorate the event in Calabar, Dr Iwara who was accompanied by the Clinical Medical Director of the organization, Dr Emmanuel Nwabueze, encouraged adolescents and young people to abstain from illicit sexual activities until marriage and acknowledged that for those who are sexually active, correct condom use is essential in preventing AIDS and other sexually transmitted diseases.
Dr Iwara expressed concern over the high rate of HIV infection recorded in the State recently, particularly among young people and warned them to be vigilant and aware of the current realities to ensure their survival.
Dr Iwara commended Governor Bassey Otu’s administration for its proactive measures in combating the pandemic through its people-oriented healthcare policies and programmes including the training and retraining of frontline officers, provision of preventive materials, and care for infected persons, regardless of their residency status.
According to him, “These initiatives demonstrate the State Government’s commitment to protecting the health and well-being of its residents”, he added.
The CR-SACA Director General’s message underscores the importance of comprehensive education and awareness about HIV/AIDS prevention, particularly among young people. By promoting proper condom use and encouraging responsible behaviour, the agency aims to reduce the spread of HIV/AIDS to its berest minimum in the State.
Also speaking, Dr Emmanuel Nwabueze, Clinical Medical Director of AIDS Healthcare International, commended the Cross River State Agency for the Control of AIDS (CR-SACA) for its unwavering commitment to combating HIV/AIDS in the state despite facing financial constraints, saying that CR-SACA has remained resolute in its efforts.
Dr Nwabueze pledged his organization’s support to CR-SACA, aiming to make Cross River State HIV-infection-free.
This partnership according to the Clinical Director promises to bolster the state’s fight against HIV/AIDS and improve the lives of those affected.
The event featured free testing and counselling, and free distribution of condoms at makeshift cubicles placed at strategic places.
World Condom Day is celebrated on February 13th every year, by the World Health Organization and it was first observed in 2009.
See pictures:
