Public speaker warns that parents, schools, government and religious institutions must unite to curb the growing skin-bleaching crisis among Nigerian youths.
Public affairs advocate and motivational writer, Felix Oluwaseun Agbesanwa, has raised fresh concerns over what he described as a “silent but dangerous epidemic” of skin bleaching among children and young people, warning that the trend is destroying health, confidence and identity across communities.
Agbesanwa, who recently wrote about the rising cases of skin lightening among secondary school students, said feedback from respected individuals across various sectors shows the problem is deeper than many realise. According to him, the habit often begins from infancy, when parents unknowingly apply harsh cosmetic products on babies, creating early dependence that worsens as the child grows.
“By the time these children become teenagers and undergraduates, the habit has taken firm root—driven by peer pressure, low self-esteem and the false beauty standards promoted in society,” he said.
Highlighting the severe dangers of bleaching, Agbesanwa noted that many victims expose themselves to cancer, kidney failure, skin thinning, severe burns, blotches and premature aging, while others battle emotional trauma, depression and identity crisis. He added that beyond physical harm, the trend erodes moral and spiritual understanding of natural beauty and misleads younger ones into equating worth with complexion instead of character.
Agbesanwa called for a multi-sectoral response, urging parents to stop using harsh creams on children, and asking government agencies to crack down on unregulated skin-lightening products flooding the market. He also appealed to schools to intensify health education, religious leaders to speak boldly against the practice, and the media to promote confidence and natural beauty.
“This menace will not end on its own. When government and stakeholders unite, we can build a protective wall around our children and secure the future,” he said.
Addressing those already engaged in bleaching, Agbesanwa stressed that his message is not one of condemnation. He advised victims to discontinue harmful products, adopt natural skincare habits, improve nutrition and seek professional medical guidance. Rebuilding self-esteem, he said, remains a crucial step in reversing the damage.
However, he warned individuals who continue bleaching that the consequences are inevitable. “The health complications, emotional distress and costly medical bills are realities no one should choose deliberately,” he stated.
Agbesanwa, known for sharing daily nuggets of encouragement across multiple WhatsApp groups, urged Nigerians to stand together to protect the next generation. “Natural beauty is a gift. It should be cherished, preserved and proudly displayed. Our future depends on the choices we make today.”
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