Coordinator Office Of The First Lady Calls for Stronger Youth Protection at Second Edition of ‘Comprehending Gen Z + Gen A’ Programme

By Adesuwa Ehimuan

The Coordinator Office of the First Lady, Edo State, Mrs. Edesili Okpebholo Anani, has emphasized the urgent need for reinforcing moral guidance, personal safety, and boundary awareness among young people.

She made this call in Benin-City at the second edition of Comprehending Gen Z + Gen A, themed “My Body and Boundaries.” Held at Da Civic Center, Airport Road, Benin-City.

The event, sponsored by the Senator representing Edo South Senatorial District, Senator Neda Imasuen, brought together students, policymakers, education stakeholders, and child-rights advocates to address issues of body autonomy, consent, and mutual respect among young people.

Generation Z, often shortened to Gen Z and informally known as Zoomers, is the demographic cohort succeeding Millennials and preceding Generation Alpha, which is shortened as Gen A and they are both characterized by the craze of the digital or online wave.

In her remarks, Mrs. Anani described the theme as “bold, timely, and necessary,” given the rising cases of sexual assault, peer pressure, and moral decline among youths. She expressed concern that ignorance and misinformation continue to expose both boys and girls to abuse.

“Anything that happens without your consent is rape,” she stated firmly. “It does not matter the gender — boys rape girls, boys rape boys now; women rape boys; men rape women. Anyone who touches you inappropriately has crossed your boundary, and it is not acceptable.”

Speaking from the standpoint of the Office of the First Lady, Mrs. Anani stressed the importance of teaching children early about bodily autonomy and appropriate behaviour. She noted that boundary-setting is not only a moral responsibility but a critical life skill, especially in an age where social media influence, exposure, and peer pressure often mislead young people.

The First Lady Designate further cautioned students against cultism, drug abuse, and indecent dressing, reminding participants that Edo State has strict laws against cult-related activities and that young people must take responsibility for their personal safety, choices, and associations.

Earlier in his opening address, Senator Imasuen said the initiative took “a bold step toward inclusion” by addressing both the boy and girl child. He explained that teaching young people about boundaries and respect was essential to building a just and peaceful society.

“Our theme, ‘My Body and Boundaries,’ is not merely a slogan — it is a call to awareness, respect, and responsibility,” he declared. He urged parents, teachers, traditional rulers, and policymakers to collaborate in nurturing a new generation that understands respect, empathy, and self-worth.

In a goodwill message, UNESCO Young Influencer, Isabella Anani points out that many young people feel torn between wanting to make a big impact and the pressure of external expectations, while trying to stay true to their personal values.

She emphasizes that leadership means showing up with heart and action—not waiting for perfection. Small, consistent steps—like rallying friends to challenge a rule—can build meaningful change, and looking to role models provides vital inspiration.

Also speaking, Dr. Osigbovo Eriamiantoe of the University of Benin Health Centre emphasized the importance of mental health, warning that substance abuse and cultism remain leading triggers of depression and violence among youths.

Representing the Edo State Commissioner for Youth Affairs, Permanent Secretary Iryn Omoroguiwa lauded the programme as “a significant step towards empowering young people,” reaffirming the government’s commitment to creating safe, supportive spaces for youth development.

Impact advocate Dr. Owen Omo-Ojo, founder of HIGH Health Consultant, added that defending personal boundaries “is not rudeness but courage — an act of self-awareness and self-respect.”

The event featured a talk show, drama presentations, and the distribution of gifts to participating schools. It concluded with a unified call to action: that empowering young people with knowledge, confidence, and respect remains one of the most effective ways to build a safe, balanced, and morally grounded society.