Abstract: This article aims to examine the subtle links that exist
between cultural practices and beliefs and the high prevalence rate of HIV/AIDS
in Nigeria. It investigates the cultural practices that influence risky sexual
behaviour and how cultural values of the people can be conceptualised into STIs
preventive communication campaign in Nigeria. Data were gathered through an
in-depth interview among young students of Moshood Abiola Polytechnic. The study also shows that
socio-cultural environment and structural contexts are responsible for the
prevalence of HIV/AIDS in Nigeria. Therefore, the non-centrality of culture in
HIV/AIDS preventive campaign is one of the major reasons why very little
success has been recorded in the area of behaviour change. The study emphasize
that HIV/AIDS preventive communication campaign should not fight against the
culture of the people because it might alienate the people whose cooperation is
necessary if the prevalence of HIV/AIDS must be curbed. Therefore, the study
advocates that campaign planners should rather try to make behaviour and
practices safer in a way that is culturally acceptable to people.
Keywords: HIV/AIDS, Preventive communication, Cultural practices