“Choose Water, Not Risk”: Health Minister Urges Youth as Nigeria Ramps Up HIV Prevention Drive
Pan Afric Reporters
In a strong call to action for both government and youth, Nigeria’s Minister of Health has urged state governments to step up domestic funding for health, absorb key health workers into their systems, and reduce over dependence on dwindling donor support in the fight against HIV and other sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
The Minister according to press releases e-signed by the ministry’s Deputy Director, Information & Public Relations Alaba Balogun made these remarks during a national briefing on the progress of the ‘Free to Shine’ Campaign, a flagship programme under the Renewed Hope Initiative, which continues to drive awareness, prevention, and sexual health education across the country.
Reaching out directly to the nation’s young population, the Minister delivered a memorable message:
“The best prevention for HIV and other STIs is a cup of water—not before, not after, but instead of sex.”
This powerful metaphor, urging abstinence as a tool for prevention, has quickly gained traction as a rallying cry for responsible choices among youth and has reignited national conversations about sexual health.
The ‘Free to Shine’ Campaign, built on a foundation of community engagement, local ownership, and robust public health messaging, remains at the forefront of Nigeria’s push to meet the UNAIDS 95-95-95 targets by 2030—a global benchmark that envisions 95% of people living with HIV knowing their status, 95% of those diagnosed receiving sustained treatment, and 95% of those on treatment achieving viral suppression.
Health experts continue to emphasize that progress toward these goals depends not only on medical advancements but also on sustained leadership and grassroots mobilization.
With Nigeria’s youth population being one of the largest in Africa, the Minister’s appeal is seen as a strategic pivot toward long-term behavioral change—one that combines education, empowerment, and prevention to secure a healthier future for the nation.
#FreeToShine #HIVAwareness #RenewedHopeInitiative #ChooseWater #UNAIDSGoals #NigeriaHealthDrive
