The Federal Government has issued a strong warning to young women about the dangers of forming relationships through social media, citing an alarming rise in digital exploitation and abuse.
Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, delivered the cautionary message on Thursday in Abuja during the launch of the 2025 SET4LYF Leadership, Empowerment, Achievement, and Development (LEAD) Camp, as well as the unveiling of the National Child Advancement and Achievement Programme (NCAAP).
Represented by the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, Dr. Maryam Keshinro, the Minister emphasized that digital platforms are increasingly being used to prey on unsuspecting victims. “In this digital era, relationships formed online require extra caution. Many young girls have been deceived, abducted, or even killed by people they met on social media,” she warned.
She referenced the 2024 case of Precious Alex, a 16-year-old from Lekki who was lured via Instagram and later found dead, as a grim reminder of the risks involved. “Trust must be earned, not downloaded. Be vigilant, safeguard your dignity, and always inform your parents or guardians about your online interactions,” she advised.
The Minister also highlighted the impact of the SET4LYF programme, implemented in partnership with Junior Achievement Nigeria, noting that the LEAD Camp is currently reaching over 10,500 adolescent girls across 21 states and the FCT, with a target of 180,000 adolescents nationwide.
She described the NCAAP and LEAD Camp as platforms where “policy meets purpose and talent meets opportunity,” aligned with the Renewed Hope Agenda, which prioritizes children and families in national development efforts.
Stressing the importance of aligning policy with family values, she said, “For sustainable impact, policy must walk hand-in-hand with the foundational values of family—empathy, discipline, and character development.”
Also speaking at the event, Olaolu Akogun, Country Director of SET4LYF Nigeria, explained that the programme aims to reach 180,000 youths—70% girls and 30% boys—over a four-year cycle. He outlined various components, including I-18 sessions, JA-Company, and the JA Digital Entrepreneurship Platform, which are designed to foster innovation, leadership, and career readiness.
“This isn’t just an academic initiative; it’s a lifelong pathway that continues beyond secondary school,” Akogun noted.
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He added that 70% of participants will benefit from scholarships, access to private tertiary institutions, and inclusion in the Social Equity Program. Graduates will also receive support through JA Career Connect, a job readiness and placement initiative aimed at enhancing employability and entrepreneurship.
