The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has taken a bold step in combating substance abuse among youths by launching a statewide awareness campaign in selected secondary schools across Calabar, Cross River State.
The initiative, held at the West African People Institute (WAPI), was executed in collaboration with Devongnosis Education Limited and key stakeholders, including government agencies, security bodies, and educational institutions. Its primary goal is to educate students on the dangers of drug abuse, empower them to make informed decisions, and establish student ambassadors to champion the cause.
Declaring the event open, Dr. Eme Inyangabia, Assistant Director at NDDC, expressed deep concern over the alarming rise in drug and substance abuse among secondary school students. She reaffirmed the commission’s unwavering commitment to tackling the issue with renewed vigor.
Similarly, Nnadi Roseline Ada, Deputy Commander of the Drug Demand Reduction Unit at the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) Cross River State Command, linked substance abuse to increasing mental health issues and academic decline. She warned that the future of young Nigerians is at significant risk if urgent measures are not taken to curb the menace.
One of the most powerful moments of the event was a firsthand account from a former drug addict who shared his nine-year battle with substance abuse and his journey to recovery. Speaking anonymously, he urged students to stay away from drugs, emphasizing that not everyone gets a second chance at recovery.
Stakeholders at the event called for the campaign to be expanded to more schools beyond Calabar. They advocated for continuous engagement through mentorship programs, peer education, and increased parental involvement. Additionally, they stressed the importance of strengthening rehabilitation and counseling services to support affected students.
This initiative underscores NDDC’s commitment to building a healthier and drug-free future for Nigerian youths, ensuring they are equipped with the knowledge and resources to make positive life choices.