Prominent political leaders, mental health advocates, legal experts, faith leaders, and entertainers converged in Abuja for the 2026 Annual Conference and Book Launch of ME Foundation, calling for urgent action to address trauma among girls and young people in Nigeria.
The event, themed “Dealing with Trauma,” attracted students from universities across the country and featured capacity-building sessions, scholarship awards, grants, empowerment programmes, and the launch of ‘From Trauma to Triumph’, a memoir by the Foundation’s President, Dr. Vivian Victor.
Speaking as the Special Guest of Honour, former Abia State Governor, Dr. Okezie Victor Ikpeazu stressed that tackling trauma requires a collective effort by families, government, schools, and mental health professionals.
He called for stronger enforcement of laws against child abuse, rape, and child labour while advocating greater access to psychologists and professional therapists to help survivors heal.
“Parents must protect their children, schools must provide safe learning environments, and government must ensure that offenders are brought to justice,” he said.
Ikpeazu also urged schools to provide basic amenities such as water and electricity to reduce the risks girls face while seeking such necessities outside school premises. He further advocated the abolition of corporal punishment in secondary schools as part of broader child protection reforms.
Also speaking, Bishop Sam Darko, a clergy based in Australia and Ghana described trauma as an unexpected life experience that should not define a person’s future.
According to him, healing begins when victims acknowledge their pain and deliberately seek help.
“What matters is not that trauma happened, but how you rise above it. Turn your trauma into a success story. Don’t suffer in silence—seek help,” he advised, adding that prayer also plays a vital role in the healing journey for many believers.
Guest Speaker, Barr. Sam Hart, Chief of Staff to the Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Benjamin Okezie Kalu, reminded participants that trauma is widespread but should never become anyone’s identity.
He noted that while painful experiences cannot always be erased, survivors have the power to rebuild their lives.
“Trauma lives not only in the mind but also in the body. Silence gives it power, while healing begins in safe communities where people can speak openly without fear of judgment,” he said.
Hart encouraged victims to reject isolation, avoid comparing their pain with others, and embrace supportive environments that promote recovery.
Award-winning actress and humanitarian Shaffy Bello challenged survivors to transform painful experiences into purpose.
She warned that unresolved trauma often repeats itself across generations and relationships.
“Be kind to yourself. Forgive yourself, forgive the offender, but never forget the lessons. Show up for yourself and let your pain become your purpose,” she urged.
In her welcome address, Dr. Vivian Victor described the conference as a gathering of survivors, professionals, parents, and community builders committed to restoring hope and healing emotional wounds.
She explained that the conference theme was inspired by the reality that trauma cuts across age, gender, and social status, yet remains one of the least discussed issues in African society.
“Many people carry invisible scars while appearing strong on the outside. Some smile publicly while battling emotional pain privately. Healing begins when we break the silence,” she said.
Reflecting on the Foundation’s work, Dr. Victor said ME Foundation has helped countless young women rediscover confidence, purpose, and hope through counselling, mentorship, and empowerment initiatives.
She described her newly launched book, ‘From Trauma to Triumph’, as a deeply personal memoir written from compassion and lived experience.
“My hope is that this book becomes a practical guide for everyone seeking healing, restoration, and hope,” she added.
The conference ended with renewed calls for stronger child protection policies, increased mental health awareness, and collective action to ensure that survivors of trauma are empowered to rebuild their lives and inspire others.