Igbo Customary Practices and the Prevalence of Hiv/Aids in Nigeria

Abstract

HIV/AIDS has continued to be a disease of public health concern in Nigeria since the discovery of the first positive case in the 1980s. Although considerable success has been recorded in the fight against the disease in the country, thousands of new cases continue to emerge each year. The need to consider the subtle causes of the disease's spread has become imperative. This work examines three Igbo cultural practices, namely nwanyi –inu- nwanyi – surrogacy, ghost marriage, and Ighachi, which are all legitimate means of acquiring children among the Igbo and their effect on the spread of the disease. This work employs a qualitative research design, obtaining data from relevant literatures. Searches were conducted on Google Scholar and Pubmeb. Data where analyzed theoretically, and ethically evaluated using consequetialism ethical theory. The Igbo of Southeast Nigeria value children. Childlessness among couples is abhorred. The Igbo culture allows persons who desire children to explore these cultural practices for child acquisition. These practices, however, encourage unprotected casual sex among persons with the aim of achieving pregnancy. The non-disclosure of HIV status to partners potentially encourages the spread of sexually transmitted diseases, including HIV/AIDS. The continued spread of HIV/AIDS in Nigeria is significantly affected by the traditional cultural practices of the people. The need to channel efforts towards sensitization and health education with direct targets on these cultural practices will further aid the successes so far made in the fight against the disease.