The National Association of Seadogs (Pyrates Confraternity), Ash Montana Deck, in collaboration with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), has organised an awareness walk to educate the public and intensify efforts against drug abuse among youths in Ogun State.

Participants marched through major parts of Abeokuta, including Jide Jones, Sapon, Omida, Panseke and Oke-Ilewo, drawing attention to what organisers described as a 7-10 per cent prevalence rate of substance abuse among adolescent girls and 15-20 per cent among boys.

Addressing journalists after the walk, the Capoon, Ganiu Omitogun, said the exercise formed part of activities marking the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, themed: “World Drug Problem: Persisting Issues, New Challenges, Innovative Responses.”

He lamented that drug abuse and illicit trafficking were destroying the lives of many young people, particularly young women, who were increasingly exposed to sexual exploitation, coercion and gender-based violence.

Omitogun said the stigma surrounding female drug use had forced many young women into silence, limiting their access to rehabilitation and support services.

He also decried the absence of gender-sensitive rehabilitation centres in Ogun State, saying many affected young women lacked safe and accessible opportunities for recovery.

According to him, substance abuse among females contributes to school dropouts, reproductive health complications, pregnancy-related risks, neonatal health problems and long-term developmental challenges for children.

He called for targeted interventions, improved social protection systems and the establishment of gender-responsive rehabilitation facilities.