Senator Neda Imasuen, representing Edo South Senatorial District, has called for youth empowerment for a just and balanced society.
He stated this during the second edition of ‘Comprehending Gen Z+ Gen A,’ themed “My Body and Boundaries,” held yesterday in Benin City.
The programme sponsored by the senator brought together students, policymakers, educators and child advocates to examine issues surrounding body autonomy, consent, and mutual respect among young people.
Delivering his keynote address, Senator Imasuen said this year’s edition took “a bold step towards inclusion” by addressing both the boy and girl-child. He emphasised that understanding one’s body and personal boundaries remains fundamental to building a stable society.
“Our theme, ‘My Body and Boundaries’ is not merely a slogan; it is a call to awareness, respect and responsibility,” he stated.
He stressed that the girl-child must understand that her body belongs to her alone and should not be exploited or used for validation, while the boy-child must learn that true strength is rooted in respect, empathy and protection, not dominance.
Imasuen urged parents, teachers, traditional institutions and policymakers to work collaboratively to raise a generation that honours their bodies and respects those of others.
“When we educate, empower and protect all our children, we build stable families, peaceful communities and a strong and just nation,” he noted.
The coordinator of the Edo State Office of the First Lady, Mrs Anani Edesili, also addressed the audience, highlighting the need for moral and behavioural boundaries in an era where exposure and peer pressure often mislead youths. She lamented the increasing number of boys and girls who fall victim to sexual assault due to ignorance or lack of awareness.
“Anything that happens without your consent is rape. It doesn’t matter the gender – boys rape boys, women rape boys, women rape women. Anyone who touches you inappropriately has crossed your boundary, and it is unacceptable,” she said.
She further warned students against cultism, drug abuse and indecent dressing, reminding them of the strict laws against cult-related activities in the state.
Speaking on mental health, Dr Osigbovo Eriamiantoe of the University of Benin Health Centre, urged young people to take their well-being seriously, noting that substance abuse and cultism remain major triggers of depression and violence.
The permanent secretary of the Ministry of Youth Affairs, Iryn Omoroguiwa, who represented the commissioner, commended the initiative as a significant step toward youth empowerment and reiterated the government’s commitment to providing safe spaces for personal development.
An impact advocate, Dr Owen Omo-Ojo, founder of HIGH Health Consultant, described personal boundaries as an essential expression of self-awareness and self-respect, noting that defending them “is not rudeness but courage.”
The event featured a talk show, drama presentations, and gift items for participating schools. It concluded with a resounding call to empower the younger generation through knowledge, confidence, and respect to build a safer and more balanced society.
