Patience Jonathan Urges Female Students to Reject Prostitution, Drug AbuseBy Philip Yatai

Former First Lady Patience Jonathan has called on female students to stay away from prostitution and drug abuse, highlighting the importance of dignity and self-respect.

Speaking at the National Female Students Conference in Abuja on Monday, Jonathan, represented by Safiya Ogo, Director-General of Women of Change Initiative, expressed concern over the growing involvement of young girls in harmful social behaviors, including drug abuse, prostitution, trafficking, and cybercrimes.

At the event, organized by the National Association of Female Students (ANFS) to mark the 2024 International Day of the Girl Child, Jonathan was named Grand Matron of the association. She urged female students to be role models and avoid destructive habits, emphasizing the significance of education as a key to personal and societal development.

“You must focus on your studies, stay law-abiding, and aim for greatness,” she said, encouraging the students to resist the lure of quick wealth through unethical means.

Dr. Adedayo Benjamins-Laniyi, Mandate Secretary, Women Affairs Secretariat, FCT, and Dr. Jumai Ahmadu, founder of Helpline Social Support Initiative, echoed Jonathan’s sentiments, stressing the power of education in breaking cycles of poverty and fostering progress.

ANFS President Omoniyi Alice underscored the need for equal opportunities for female students to excel and called for a culture of inclusion in academic institutions.