How Prostitution Has Become Silent Epidemic Among Students, Married Women

Within Nigeria’s bustling cities and serene university campuses, there is a silent epidemic known as prosti­tution.

One of the most concerning aspects of this trend is the in­volvement of both married and unmarried students in this trade, which raises serious moral, so­cial, and economic concerns.

This phenomenon does not just affect university students. Married women are also becoming more involved in prostitution, citing reasons such as poverty and unhappiness at home.

The proliferation of brothels, hotels, and lodges near universi­ties and other higher institutions has created an environment conducive to the growth of this trade, often with the knowledge of those who profit financially.

Recent events in Kano State demonstrated the gravity of the situation. Authorities in the Garun Mallam Local Govern­ment Area closed the Kwanar Gafan Tomato Market due to allegations of widespread prosti­tution and immorality.

Aisha Saji, the Commissioner for Tourism and Management, revealed that 43 people, 34 females and nine males, ages 15 to 18, were arrested during a raid involving security personnel and Hisbah Board officials. Surpris­ingly, 14 of them tested positive for HIV, with four unaware of their condition.

This incident demonstrated the broader consequences of prostitution, which include the spread of sexually transmit­ted infections (STIs), marital instability, and the erosion of societal value, particularly in the Northern part of the country where such behaviour is strictly prohibited.

Several factors contribute to the rise of prostitution, espe­cially among students. Poverty remains a major motivator, with many young women from impov­erished backgrounds turning to sex work as a means of survival. Others, despite having financial backing, are drawn to the trade by greed, peer pressure, or a desire for a lavish lifestyle.

The ailing economy has exacerbated the situation. With widespread job losses and limited opportunities, many people have turned to prostitu­tion as a quick fix. Students, in particular, have rebranded the trade as “hookups,” normalising transactional sex under a more appealing name.

Furthermore, the breakdown of societal values has contrib­uted to the acceptance of this vice. The failure of the value system, combined with expo­sure to unwholesome influenc­es, has resulted in a generation of young people who value material wealth over moral integrity.

The consequences of campus prostitution go beyond the indi­viduals involved. The once-sa­cred ivory towers of learning are now plagued by immorality, jeopardising academic excel­lence and intellectual pursuits.

Many students now believe they can get good grades by brib­ing lecturers with cash or sexual favours obtained from prostitu­tion. This has reduced the value of hard work and research, polluting the academic environ­ment and having a knock-on effect on the quality of education in Nigeria.

Despite the prevalence of prostitution, Nigeria does not have specific laws criminalising the practice.

Section 225A of the Criminal Code Act addresses procuring and related offences but does not outright prohibit prostitution. This legal ambiguity allows the trade to continue with little risk of prosecution for those involved.

The law primarily targets those who live on the proceeds of prostitution or solicit for immoral purposes in public places. However, the lack of a comprehensive legal framework has made it difficult to address the underlying causes of the problem.

To combat the growing menace of prostitution, stake­holders must take a multifaceted approach.

Governments and non-gov­ernmental organisations (NGOs) must prioritise empowering women and young girls through education, vocational training, and employment opportunities.

Poverty alleviation programs should be prioritised to address the economic factors that drive prostitution.

Schools, religious organisa­tions, and community leaders should step up efforts to instil moral values in young people. Advocacy for public morality must become an integral part of the educational system.

While current laws do not ex­pressly criminalise prostitution, related offences should be vig­orously prosecuted. Institutions must also enforce strict codes of conduct, expelling students and dismissing lecturers who engage in or enable prostitution.

Adequate rehabilitation pro­grammes for sex workers should be implemented, with a focus on health education, counselling, and skill development. Those infected with HIV and other STIs require appropriate medical care and support.

In addition, national aware­ness campaigns should address the dangers of prostitution, such as its health risks and impact on societal values.

The rise of prostitution among Nigerian students and married women is a symptom of larger societal issues such as poverty, moral decay, and inade­quate institutional frameworks. Addressing this threat necessi­tates a collaborative effort from all segments of society.

As Nigeria confronts this silent epidemic, the emphasis must shift from condemnation to action. Prostitution may provide temporary financial relief, but the long-term costs to individu­als, families, and society are far too high to ignore.