The Edo State Government through the Office of the Edo State First Lady, has reaffirmed its commitment to combating human trafficking, irregular migration, sexual exploitation and drug abuse, with the goal of creating a safer and more secure environment for residents in the State, particularly women and children.
The Coordinator, Office of the Edo State First Lady, Mrs. Edesili Okpebholo Anani, gave the assurance during a programme themed “Combatting Human Trafficking: Collaborative Efforts for a Brighter Future”, as organised by the Ministry of Education in collaboration with the Mariam Ashley Yusuf (MAY) Foundation, at the John Odigie Oyegun Public Service Academy (JOOPSA) in Benin City.
Having witnessed the devastating consequences of the issues of human trafficking, drug abuse and sexual exploitation, Mrs. Edesili urged youth to prioritize their future and make wise choices to achieve their potentials. According to her, “I have witnessed firsthand the devastating impact of human trafficking, sexual abuse and drug abuse in our community. That’s why I’m deeply committed to working tirelessly to address these issues and raise awareness about the dangers of such vices.
“Don’t let a moment of pleasure ruin your future. It can destroy dreams, as it has for many young people who could have been doctors, governors or even presidents. Instead, they’re left struggling and some are even roaming the streets, lost. You’re the leaders of tomorrow, and I pray that you won’t let fleeting pleasures dictate your path. The good news is that the future is bright for all of you and I believe in your potentials”.
Mrs. Anani while reassuring that the State Government is dedicated to amplifying girls’ voices and protecting them from sexual harassment, stated that It had taken significant steps to combat human trafficking, with the establishment of the Edo State Migration Agency to support victims’ rehabilitation and reintegration. In her words, “From the Office, we’re giving every girl a voice, empowering her to speak up. When faced with sexual harassment, don’t be afraid to speak out, because the Government stands with you.
“This administration has taken significant steps to combat human trafficking in line with the theme, ‘Combating Human Trafficking: Collaborative Efforts for a Brighter Future.’ The Government has established the Edo State Migration Agency to reduce human trafficking, rehabilitate victims and support their reintegration into society. This initiative demonstrates our commitment to promoting peace, harmony and development in the State”.
Mrs. Anani cautioned that certain influences can have detrimental effects and stressed the importance of making informed decisions in all human endeavours, urging students to cultivate self-discipline and to make positive choices of prioritizing education. abhorring sexual abuse and safeguarding their future to avoid destructive pathways.
The Commissioner for Education, Dr. Emmanuel Paddy Iyamu, emphasized the importance of setting clear goals and taking consistent action to achieve them. He urged students to avoid harmful practices like drug abuse, human trafficking, saying that failing to pursue one’s goals could lead to future regrets. “Ensure you have clear tasks and targets in place. Let me be clear; you must take practical steps daily to achieve your dreams. There’s no limit to what you can achieve. If you are toying with your destiny today, you may regret it in the evening of your life”. He stated.
Dr. Iyamu admonished on the importance of safeguarding one’s potential by steering clear of destructive habits like drug use and instead, surrounding oneself with positive role models and influences that foster good decision-making and goal achievement.
The Founder of MAY Foundation, Mariam Ashley Yusuf, noted that the programme was a shared commitment to safeguarding the dignity, future and well-being of Nigerian children and youth, who are vulnerable to the threats of human trafficking, abuse and substance abuse, which can severely disrupt their lives and futures. She advocated collective action to strengthen prevention, protect victims and build rehabilitation pathways for human trafficking and abuse, emphasizing the need for stronger collaboration and a commitment to end the menace to safeguard the future generations.
”Today, we must ask ourselves how do we strengthen prevention? How do we better protect victims? How do we build sustainable rehabilitation and integration pathways? And how do we forge stronger collaboration across our institutions and communities to ensure that this horror does not persist into the next generation? Within this room lies a collective resolve to chart a new course; one built not of rhetoric, but a shared responsibility, action with practice and renowned partnership. Let us be here with a commitment that our lives, our children and youth will no longer be sacrificed for the greed of traffickers or the suppression of abuse,” She stated.
The event featured variety of activities including a book launch, panel discussion, entertainment by secondary school students, and presentation of an award to Mrs. Anani in recognition of her humanitarian works in the State.
Gloria Osemudiamhen
Public Relations Officer
Office of the First Lady
Edo State
PHOTO CAPTION
R- L: The Coordinator, Office of the Edo State First Lady, Mrs. Edesili Okpebholo Anani and the Commissioner for Education, Dr. Emmanuel Paddy Iyamu during an awareness campaign on human trafficking at JOOPSA in Benin City.
