Digital relationship safety urged by FG as tragic online luring cases rise. New youth empowerment programs launched to protect and prepare adolescents

Digital relationship safety is now a growing national concern, as the Federal Government has issued a strong warning to young women about forming risky relationships through social media platforms.

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At an event in Abuja on Thursday, Minister of Women Affairs and Social Development, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, highlighted the growing dangers of digital exploitation.

Represented by Permanent Secretary Dr. Maryam Keshinro, she said too many young girls have fallen victim to online predators.

“In today’s digital age, be extremely cautious with relationships built on social media. Trust must be earned, not downloaded,” she cautioned, referencing the tragic 2024 case of Precious Alex, a 16-year-old from Lekki, lured via Instagram and later found dead.

The event marked the launch of the 2025 SET4LYF Leadership, Empowerment, Achievement, and Development (LEAD) Camp and the unveiling of the National Child Advancement and Achievement Programme (NCAAP).

Sulaiman-Ibrahim explained that LEAD Camp, in collaboration with Junior Achievement Nigeria, will empower over 10,500 girls across 21 states and the FCT, targeting 180,000 adolescents in total.

“Policy must walk hand-in-hand with family values, the bedrock of character formation,” she added.

SET4LYF Nigeria Country Director Olaolu Akogun elaborated on the program’s scope, including I-18 sessions, JA-Company, and the JA Digital Entrepreneurship Platform, preparing youths for leadership, innovation, and employment. The initiative also offers scholarships, career placements, and a Social Equity Program.

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“This isn’t just a school program; it’s a transformative pathway,” said Akogun.