The Federal Government has cautioned young women against entering risky relationships formed through social media, highlighting the growing dangers of digital exploitation.
The Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, issued the warning in Abuja on Thursday at the launch of the 2025 SET4LYF Leadership, Empowerment, Achievement, and Development Camp and the unveiling of the National Child Advancement and Achievement Programme.
Represented by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Dr. Maryam Keshinro, the minister reminded attendees that digital spaces were not always safe, stating that “trust must be earned, not downloaded,” while urging caution among young women.
“In today’s digital age, be extremely cautious with relationships built on social media. Too many young girls have been lured, kidnapped, or killed by individuals posing online.
“The tragic case of Precious Alex (16, Lekki), who was lured through Instagram and found dead in 2024, reminds us that digital spaces are not always safe.
“Trust must be earned, not downloaded. Be alert, protect your dignity, and always inform your parents or guardians of your engagements,” she said.
Sulaiman-Ibrahim explained that the LEAD Camp under the SET4LYF programme, implemented in collaboration with Junior Achievement Nigeria, is currently designed to empower over 10,500 adolescent girls across 21 states and the FCT, with the long-term goal of reaching 180,000 adolescents nationwide.
She said the NCAAP and LEAD Camp represent a system “where policy meets purpose and talent meets opportunity,” in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda that places children and families at the center of national development.
While outlining broader efforts to protect children and vulnerable groups, she noted that “Policy must walk hand-in-hand with family values, the bedrock of character formation, empathy, and discipline.”
Also speaking, the Country Director of SET4LYF Nigeria, Olaolu Akogun, said the programme targets “180,000 young people, inclusive of 70 per cent girls and 30 per cent boys,” over a four-year cycle.
He outlined components such as the I-18 sessions, JA-Company, and the JA Digital Entrepreneurship Platform, aimed at preparing participants for innovation, leadership, and employment.
“This is not just a program for students while in school; it is a long-term pathway that transcends their time in secondary school,” he said.
Akogun added that 70% of participants will have access to scholarship opportunities, placements in private tertiary institutions, and participation in the Social Equity Program. Graduates will also benefit from JA Career Connect, a work readiness and job placement initiative to boost employability and entrepreneurship.
