ABSTRACT
) were males and the majority had at least a secondary education (86.7) and were single (95.1). Most of them (82.2) were aware of sexually transmitted infections; and 77.9were aware that condoms prevent transmission of HIV. Seventy-one percent of the young persons were sexually experienced (i.e. previously had sex); 12.9admitted they had previously had sex in exchange for money; and 63.4reported ever using a condom. Median age of sexual debut (sexarche) was 15.7 years. Most (82.1) of the sexually experienced were currently sexually active reporting sexual intercourse within the 6 months preceding survey. Nearly half (47.1) of these had sex with a casual and/or commercial sex worker without a condom.Conclusion: Young people are adopting sexual practices that are essentially high-risk; with severe implications for regional and national socio- economic development. This underscores the fact that they know only little and lack skills to protect themselves from being infected with HIV infections; even when they are sexually active. There is therefore need to advocate for and support initiatives that address reproductive health needs of young people in the Niger Delta region