23/07/2026
The long holiday period is a time many adolescents look forward to: time away from school, more free time, visits to family and friends, summer programs, and religious camps. While it is a season of rest and fun, it is also a period when adolescents can be more vulnerable to sexual abuse and exploitation.
The reality is that most cases of sexual abuse against adolescents happen in places they should feel safest: homes, with relatives, neighbors, coaches, or people they know and trust. During long holidays, reduced adult supervision, travel, and increased social interactions can increase this risk.
Educating adolescents before the holiday is not to scare them. It is to equip them.
When young people understand their bodies, their rights, and what abuse looks like, they are better able to protect themselves, speak up early, and get help.
Why It Matters:
1. Knowledge is Protection: Adolescents who can name body parts, understand boundaries, and know what inappropriate touch is, are less likely to be victimized and more likely to report.
2. Early Reporting Saves Lives: Delay in reporting worsens physical, emotional, and psychological trauma. Education encourages immediate disclosure.
3. Breaking the Silence: Many adolescents stay silent out of shame, fear, or not knowing it was wrong. Education empowers them to speak up.
4. Health Impact: Sexual abuse can lead to STIs, unwanted pregnancy, depression, anxiety, and long-term trauma. Prevention protects their physical and mental health.
Short Tips for Adolescents: Prevent & Respond
A. HOW TO PREVENT ABUSE
1. Know Your Body & Boundaries
Your body belongs to you. No one should touch your private parts except for health reasons and with a trusted adult/doctor present.
2. Trust Your Instincts
If a situation, joke, or touch makes you uncomfortable, it is okay to say “No” and walk away.
3. Be Careful with Secrets
Safe adults never ask you to keep secrets about touching. “This is our little secret” is a red flag.
4. Limit One-on-One Situations
Avoid being alone with an adult in isolated places. Meet in open, public spaces.
5. Be Smart Online
Do not share n**e photos, personal address, or meet online friends alone. Block and report anyone who asks for sexual pictures.
B. HOW TO HANDLE/MANAGE IF ABUSE OCCURS*
1. Say No and Get Away
Shout, run, and get to a safe place with other people.
2. Tell a Trusted Adult Immediately
Tell a parent, teacher, counselor, pastor, or any adult you trust. If they don’t believe you, tell another adult.
3. Do Not Bathe or Change Clothes
Preserve evidence. Go to the hospital as soon as possible for medical care and documentation.
4. Get Medical Help Within 72 Hours
Visit the nearest Health Centre, General Hospital or a Sexual Assault Referral Centre – (SARC) in Lagos for treatment, counseling, and PEP to prevent HIV and pregnancy.
5. Report the Case
You can report to:
- Hello Lagos Alimosho: +2348122901694, +234 9128719586
- Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency – DSVA: Toll-free 08000333333
- NAPTIP: 07030000203
- Police: 911 / 112
- Nearest Health Centre or General Hospital
Reporting is confidential and help is free.
Our Call as Lagos State Ministry of Health
As we release adolescents for the long holiday, let us prioritize preventive health education. A 30-minute conversation with a child about body safety can prevent a lifetime of trauma.
Let’s equip them with information, let them know help exists, and assure them: “It is not your fault. You will be believed. You will be supported.”
Together, we can ensure our adolescents return from holiday safe, healthy, and whole.
For more information and support, contact Lagos State Ministry of Health – Adolescent & School Health Program.
