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.