In a renewed effort to tackle the rising tide of drug abuse among young Nigerians, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), in collaboration with Equitable Planning Consult and the University of Lagos, has launched a community sensitisation campaign in the Igbooye Kingdom of Eredo LCDA, Epe Division, Lagos State.
The initiative, themed “Towards a Drug-Free Society: Safeguarding the Youths for a Better Future,” was held at the palace of the Orijeru of Igbooye Kingdom, His Royal Majesty, Oba AbdulRasaq Akanni Musa.
It aimed to strengthen preventive education and promote behavioural change through grassroots advocacy.
Speaking at the event, the Deputy Controller of NDLEA, Lagos Command, Mr. Lanuwa, warned that drug abuse remains one of the greatest threats to Nigeria’s social and economic stability, particularly among teenagers and young adults.
According to him, “Drug abuse destroys futures, weakens families, and endangers communities. Our goal is not just to arrest offenders but to prevent the next generation from falling victim through education and awareness. Every school, home, and community must take responsibility.”
He called on parents, teachers, religious leaders, and traditional rulers to join hands with the NDLEA in building early resistance among youths and ensuring that rehabilitation and reintegration remain key components of the nation’s anti-drug strategy.
The sensitisation programme, facilitated by Equitable Planning Consult and supported by Dr. Olayinka Agunloye, an Associate Professor at the University of Lagos, drew participants from Igbooye Community Senior and Junior High Schools, St. Paul’s Primary School, and the Igbooye Vocational Training Centre. Students and residents interacted with resource persons, sharing experiences and concerns about substance abuse in their community.
In his royal address, Oba AbdulRasaq Akanni Musa described drug abuse as a “silent destroyer of destinies” and called for stronger community vigilance. “This battle cannot be left to NDLEA alone,” he said. “Communities must rise to protect their young people. A drug-free youth population means a stronger and more peaceful society.”
The Olisa of Igbooye, Chief AbdulBariu AbdulQuadri, who gave the closing remarks, commended the organisers and reaffirmed the community’s zero-tolerance stance on drug use, stressing that the fight requires unity, continuous education, and government support.
Observers noted that the initiative aligns with the Federal Government’s National Drug Control Master Plan (2021–2025), which emphasises prevention, rehabilitation, and community participation as key pillars in building a drug-free Nigeria.
Reporting by Niran Odufayo