The Chairperson of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ) FCT, Bassey Ita-Ikpang, has called on Nigerians to embrace love with responsibility, safety and compassion as the world marks Valentine’s Day.
In a goodwill message to members of NAWOJ FCT and the general public, Ita-Ikpang described Valentine’s Day as a reminder that love should inspire kindness, respect and care for one another.
“Valentine’s Day reminds us that love is a beautiful gift — one that should inspire compassion, respect, generosity and care for one another,” she said. “Let love radiate in our homes, our workplaces and our communities. Let it reflect in how we treat colleagues, how we support one another, and how we uplift those who are vulnerable.”
Speaking as an HIV Media Advocate, the NAWOJ FCT chair urged Nigerians, particularly young people, to prioritise their health and safety by embracing responsible relationships and preventive practices.
“I encourage everyone, especially young people, to share love, not the virus,” she stated. “Protect yourself. Know your HIV status. Embrace safe practices. True love does not endanger lives; it protects and preserves them.”
Ita-Ikpang also called for increased openness around HIV testing and conversations aimed at reducing stigma, stressing that awareness and prevention are acts of love.
“There is no shame in knowing your status, knowledge is power, and prevention is love in action,” she added, urging society to support people living with HIV “with compassion and dignity.”
While celebrating the season, the NAWOJ FCT chair cautioned young girls and women against relationships that threaten their safety or future, warning that love should never involve coercion or abuse.
“Love should never come with pressure, manipulation, abuse or exploitation,” she said. “True love protects, respects boundaries and preserves dignity.”
She further challenged women journalists and advocates to use the Valentine period to promote messages of self-worth, consent and responsible relationships.
“Love must never cost a life, a dream, or a destiny,” Ita-Ikpang said, wishing Nigerians a joyful, wise and safe Valentine’s Day.
