Akpan, who made the call in an interview with reporters in Gwagwalada, expressed concern over the degree of unprotected sexual activities made out of impulsive decisions by younger adults.

According to her, the Valentine period is a time for young people to express love for one another, but such love should be expressed cautiously, within the context of caring for their loved ones.

“Valentine’s Day has become a sentimental and `expensive day’ of love, as one can see in our materialistic society today.

“Yet, it can also be a time to soberly reflect on our love for others, and on what love actually means.

“Love is obviously the greatest and most desired virtue of life, and if our lives aren’t filled with love, life will not be complete.

“We call on youths in the country to show genuine love and live a healthy lifestyle,’’ she said.

The social Counsellor who decried the risk associated with having multiple sexual partners, said it was capable of increasing vulnerability to HIV among youth population.

“It is important for our youths to stay protected, play safe and get tested to know their status.

“However, if they cannot abstain from sex, they should use condoms as it would prevent STDs, including HIV and unwanted pregnancies.

”Youths should desist from indulging in sinful acts, especially fornication, while they celebrate Valentine’s Day,” she said.

The day was set aside to mark a minor Western Christian feast day in honour of the Saint, it has now become a significant cultural, religious, and commercial celebration of romance and love in many regions of the world.