The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has initiated a statewide campaign aimed at combating substance abuse in selected secondary schools across Calabar in Cross River State.
This campaign, launched in partnership with key stakeholders, including government agencies, security organisations, and educational institutions, seeks to educate students about the dangers of drug abuse, empower them to make informed choices, and create student ambassadors who will promote awareness within their communities.
An assistant director at the NDDC, Dr Eme Inyangabia, at the opening ceremony, expressed her grave concern over the increasing rate of drug and substance abuse among young people, particularly within secondary schools.
She reaffirmed the NDDC’s commitment to addressing this pressing issue with renewed determination.
Also, a deputy commander of the Drug Demand Reduction Unit at the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Cross River State, Nnadi Roseline Ada, spoke at the event.
She emphasised the troubling correlation between substance abuse and the rise in mental health issues and declining academic performance among students.
Ada warned that unless urgent measures are taken, the future of Nigeria’s youth remains at significant risk.
A former drug addict, who shared his nine-year struggle with substance abuse and his path to recovery, implored students to steer clear of drugs, underscoring that not everyone is fortunate enough to escape addiction as he did.
Participants at the event urged for the campaign to be expanded to more schools both within and beyond Calabar.
They advocated for ongoing engagement through follow-up programmes, mentorship initiatives, and peer education efforts.
Furthermore, stakeholders highlighted the critical need for increased parental involvement, along with strengthening rehabilitation and counseling services to provide essential support for affected students.
