Premiere Academy, Abuja, and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Abuja Command, have held a one-day drug awareness seminar for students, amid rising concerns over substance abuse and its impact on young people in Nigeria.

The seminar, facilitated by a three-member NDLEA team, focused on the dangers of drug abuse, the health and legal consequences of substance misuse, and strategies for resisting peer pressure.

Students were also given the opportunity to ask questions and engage directly with the officers.

The NDLEA team was led by Chief Superintendent of Narcotics, Nduka Augustine. Other facilitators were Assistant Superintendent of Narcotics II, Chilaka Chinedum, and Asabe Adole Sukai.

Speaking at the event, the Principal of Premiere Academy, Mr Chris Akinsowon, described the seminar as part of the school’s yearly activities aimed at addressing drug and substance abuse.

He said the initiative reflects changing expectations from parents regarding the role of schools.

“Today’s parents are no longer asking about grades alone. Is my child in a safe and disciplined environment? Is my child surrounded by the right values and influences? Will the school equip my child to navigate life’s challenges with confidence? These are the concerns of today’s parents,” Akinsowon said.

He noted that the school has consistently implemented sensitisation programmes on the dangers of drug abuse, adding that informed students are better positioned to make decisions and resist pressure from peers.

He further stated that drug prevention campaigns targeting secondary school students should receive support from all stakeholders.

Leading the NDLEA facilitation, Augustine said the statistics on drug use in Nigeria remain troubling.

He cited data indicating that over 14 million Nigerians aged 15 to 64 have used drugs at least once, with young people identified as the most vulnerable group.

According to him, factors such as easy access to harmful substances, peer influence, and the portrayal of drug use on social media have made prevention efforts more urgent.

“Today’s reality is that quality education goes beyond books and grades. It is about preparing students for life. In today’s world, young people face increasing exposure to harmful influences. All stakeholders and institutions saddled with the upbringing of young people must collaborate to raise awareness and provide a strong shield against drug proliferation and abuse in our country,” Augustine said.

He emphasised the role of young people in the campaign against drug abuse and urged students to avoid illicit drugs that could affect their health, education and future.

He also pointed out that drug abuse remains a leading cause of death among Nigerian youths and has long-term effects on both physical health and mental well-being.

The session included an interactive segment where students asked questions on identifying risky behaviour, the legal implications of drug possession and use, and how to support peers who may be struggling with substance use.