The people of Igbooye community in Epe, Lagos, have intensified efforts to curb the growing problem of drug abuse among young people through a sensitisation campaign aimed at building a safer and drug free society.
The campaign, themed “Towards a Drug-Free Society: Safeguarding the Youths for a Better Future,” brought together community leaders, traditional rulers, schoolchildren, and officials from the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).
Speaking at the event, Deputy Commander of Operations and Training at the NDLEA Lagos Strategic Command, Lamuwa Shehu Muhammad, described drug abuse as a global challenge that has deeply affected Nigeria.
“About 280 million people use drugs across the world, and 15 million of them are Nigerians. This is alarming and calls for urgent collective action. Churches, mosques, and parents must all play their roles in discouraging drug use and teaching children how to say no.”
The host of the event, His Royal Majesty Oba Abdulrazaq Akanni Musa, the ruler of Igbooye Kingdom, said the programme was part of his community development efforts since his ascension to the throne.
“Our major focus is the youth because they are more vulnerable. We decided to invest in sensitising them about the dangers of drugs. Prevention is better than cure. While some elderly people are already involved, the youth still have time to be redirected.”
The monarch also noted that drug abuse and insecurity are among the biggest threats facing the community. He added that unemployment and economic hardship contributes to the problem, which is why he has also prioritised empowerment initiatives.
“Recently, we empowered some youths with fish and fish feeds through a federal government project. We plan to do more, including addressing medical challenges. We currently have no primary health centre in Igbooye, and that’s something we’re working on with support from colleagues in the Ministry of Health,” he said.
An Associate Professor at the University of Lagos and Principal Partner of Equitable Planning Consult, which organised the programme, Dr Olayinka Agunloye, said the sensitisation was linked to the broader goal of building a safe and liveable environment.
“For any community to be secure and equitable, its people must be drug free. When drug abuse increases, crime rates go up, and no amount of urban planning can make such an environment livable.”
He explained that the Lagos State government, through the Lottery Authority, has pledged to support follow up and rehabilitation efforts for individuals affected by drug abuse in collaboration with the Palace.
“This is just the starting point. We already have attendance lists for follow-up, and the palace will work with the government to sustain the awareness and rehabilitation process.”
Students from several schools, including Igbooye Community Junior and Senior High Schools, St Paul Anglican School, and the Local Government Primary School, were in attendance.
The initiative, according to organisers, is expected to continue as a long-term effort to reduce drug-related activities and create a healthier environment for the youths of Igbooye and its neighbouring communities.
