Stakeholders in Lagos State have intensified efforts to curb substance abuse among young people, as renewed advocacy campaigns combine education, community engagement, and creative storytelling to address the growing menace.
Dr. (Mrs) Claudiana Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, wife of the Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has reaffirmed her commitment to safeguarding young Nigerians from the dangers of illicit drug use through sustained awareness initiatives in partnership with tertiary institutions.
As part of activities marking the 2026 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, the First Lady’s office organised an Awareness Campaign and Walk Against Drug Abuse at Caleb University, Imota, Lagos State. The institution is the third tertiary school to participate in the initiative.
The campaign brought together students, staff, and health advocates, with a renewed focus on prevention, rehabilitation, and education as key tools in tackling drug addiction.
In a notable highlight of the event, the Vice-Chancellor of Caleb University, Professor Olalekan Asikhia, used dramatic reenactments inspired by popular Mount Zion films to illustrate the devastating consequences of substance abuse.
The performance added a creative dimension to the campaign, reinforcing the message that storytelling and cultural engagement can complement policy efforts in changing youth behaviour.
In his remarks, Prof. Asikhia described the theme of the 2026 World Drug Abuse Day, “The World Drug Problem: Persisting Issues, New Challenges, Innovative Responses,” as timely, noting that substance abuse remains a persistent and evolving societal challenge despite years of interventions.
He stressed the university’s commitment to fostering a drug-free environment and promoting mental wellness among students.
“As a university, we recognise our unique role not only as a centre for academic excellence but also as a moral compass and a community of change agents,” he said.
He added that the institution would continue to use a combination of advocacy, expert engagement, and theatrical presentations to educate students on the realities of drug abuse and the importance of responsible choices.
Dr. Sanwo-Olu, reflecting on previous outreach efforts, said that more than 3,000 participants joined a similar campaign at Lagos State University (LASU), noting that Caleb University’s participation marked a significant expansion of the initiative into private tertiary institutions.
She described drug abuse as a major threat to youth development, stating that its consequences cut across health, education, productivity, and social stability.
“Drug abuse threatens our youth and society at large. It damages mental and physical health, academic performance, productivity, relationships, and well-being,” she said.
She also called for greater compassion toward victims of addiction, urging society to prioritise rehabilitation over stigma.
“We must embrace compassion, encourage rehabilitation, and create opportunities for recovery,” she added.
The First Lady emphasised ongoing collaboration between her office and key government agencies, including the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), as well as ministries responsible for education, health, justice, and youth development.
She urged students to take responsibility for their choices and become advocates against drug abuse within their communities.
“To students: your choices today shape your tomorrow. Drug abuse may bring temporary excitement but destroys dreams, health, education, career, and life,” she said.
Wife of the Deputy Governor of Lagos State, Mrs Oluremi Hamzat, also encouraged students to adopt positive values and reject all forms of substance abuse.
Stakeholders at the event reiterated that sustained awareness, early intervention, and multi-sector collaboration remain essential to addressing the growing challenge of drug abuse among Nigerian youths.
