Varsity, Students’ Association Partner Against Drug Abuse

The University of Cross River State (UNICROSS) has pledged support for the anti-drug abuse campaign led by the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS’) Joint Campus Council (JCC), Cross River State chapter.

He made the pledge yesterday in Calabar during a strategic meeting held between the university’s management and representatives of NANS.

The vice chancellor of UNICROSS, Prof Francisca Bassey, reaffirmed her administration’s commitment to prioritizing students’ welfare and addressing substance abuse across the institution’s campuses.

“The proposed campaign is timely and critical, and we assure the student leadership of our readiness to support its successful implementation,” she said.

Bassey emphasised that the health and well-being of students remain a top priority of her administration, highlighting ongoing improvements at the university’s Medical Centre.

She promised logistical assistance, including transportation support for campaign activities.

Earlier, the chairman, NANS’ Joint Campus Council (JCC ), Comrade Victor Asuquo, stated that the engagement was aimed at strengthening collaboration with the university ahead of the launch of the “Drug-Free Campus Movement.”

“The campaign will officially commence on April 10, 2026, with a street rally from Mary Slessor Roundabout to Millennium Park,” he said.

Asuquo stressed that the initiative will involve selection of 16 student ambassadors, drawn  from the three campuses  to drive advocacy efforts and link affected students with support services.

He stressed that NANS is exploring collaboration with the Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital to facilitate affordable rehabilitation services for students.

Asuquo stated that the leadership of the association is  seeking partnerships with key agencies like the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), the Ministry of Health, and the National Orientation Agency (NOA) to tackle drugs consumption problems in the campuse.

“UNICROSS occupies a strategic position in the campaign due to its large student population and multi-campus structure, which can help drive widespread awareness and impact,” Asuquo stated.