Edo State government, through the Ministry of Education, has partnered with the Mariam Ashley Yusuf (MAY) Foundation to launch a comprehensive awareness campaign aimed at curbing human trafficking, irregular migration, sexual exploitation and drug abuse among young people.
The initiative, in line with Governor Monday Okpebholo’s SHINE Agenda, was unveiled at the John Odigie-Oyegun Public Service Academy (JOOPSA) in Benin City.
It brought together students, teachers, corps members, parents, unions and key agencies, including the Edo State Migration Agency, NAPTIP, IOM, NDLEA, Nigeria Police and community representatives to strengthen the fight against social vices threatening the Edo child.
Founder of the MAY Foundation, Ambassador Mariam Ashley Yusuf, described the campaign as a united effort to safeguard the dignity and future of Nigerian youth.
“Each day across Nigeria, countless young girls see their futures disrupted and their dreams stolen by trafficking, abuse, and drugs,” she said. “These tragedies unfold in our schools, our communities, and sometimes within our very homes. They strip our children of innocence, destabilize our families, and rob our nation of its future.”
She also unveiled her book, “Stolen Dream: A Nigerian Girl’s Journey through Sex Trafficking”, which tells the story of Enewa, a young girl from Benue State, as a reflection of the broader national crisis of exploitation.
Also, the commissioner for Education, Dr. Paddy Iyamu, officially declared the campaign open, describing it as timely.
“Education is not just about academic performance; it is about shaping responsible citizens—the Edo Child. This campaign reinforces our resolve to safeguard the future of our children from predators and destructive habits,” Iyamu stated.
On behalf of the Office of the First Lady of Edo State, Mrs. Edesili Okpebholo Anani, stressed that prevention must begin with awareness, particularly in schools.
“Human trafficking, sexual exploitation and substance abuse are real threats to the future of the Edo child. We believe that prevention begins with awareness, and that awareness must start in schools,” she said.
The programme featured interactive sessions and open discussions, where students learned practical ways to recognise and resist exploitation.
On behalf of the students, Miss Obiageli Ofulue, expressed gratitude to the state government and the MAY Foundation for empowering them with courage, knowledge and resilience to make positive life choices.
Stakeholders at the event pledged to continue spreading the campaign across schools and communities to ensure its impact goes beyond the classroom.
