The Federal Government has warned young women in Nigeria to be careful with online relationships, saying social media is becoming a dangerous space for exploitation and abuse.
Minister of Women Affairs, Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim, gave the warning on Thursday in Abuja during the launch of the 2025 SET4LYF LEAD Camp and National Child Advancement Programme. Represented by Dr. Maryam Keshinro, the ministry’s Permanent Secretary, she urged young girls to stay alert and think twice before trusting people they meet online.
She said, “Trust must be earned, not downloaded.” Her warning comes after cases like that of 16-year-old Precious Alex, who was reportedly lured through Instagram and found dead in Lekki in 2024.
The Minister stressed the importance of parental guidance and safe online behaviour, urging young girls to always inform their parents or guardians before meeting anyone they connect with online.
The SET4LYF LEAD Camp aims to empower over 10,500 girls in 21 states and eventually reach 180,000 adolescents across Nigeria.
The programme offers leadership, entrepreneurship, and scholarship opportunities, helping young Nigerians prepare for a better future while staying safe.
