Akwa Ibom State Governor Umo Eno has urged young Nigerians to shun narcotics and hard drugs, warning that substance abuse poses a growing threat to families, communities and national development.

The governor delivered the message on Friday in Ikoyi, Lagos, during the public presentation of Kick The Habit, a book authored by Eno Udoma-Eniang. He was represented at the event by the Akwa Ibom State Commissioner for Information, Aniekan Umanah.

Governor Eno described drug abuse as a problem that cuts across age groups and social classes, noting that its impact extends beyond individuals to weaken families and undermine wider social progress.

He said his administration was strengthening collaboration with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency to combat illicit drug use, while also supporting sustained advocacy and behavioural change initiatives through the State Ethical and Attitudinal Reorientation Commission, alongside religious, social and cultural organisations.

According to the governor, youth-focused development programmes remain central to the state’s response, with the aim of creating alternatives that encourage positive engagement and economic participation.

He noted that publications addressing substance abuse play an important role in public education, adding that Kick The Habit contributes to ongoing efforts to raise awareness and promote prevention.

Commending the author, the governor described the book as a practical resource that combines research, lived experiences and guidance to help individuals and communities understand the dangers of drug abuse and respond more effectively.

He called on parents, teachers, religious and community leaders, as well as policymakers, to move beyond awareness campaigns and apply practical solutions to address rising substance use, stressing that the challenge requires coordinated action.

The event was chaired by Biodun Oyebanji, governor of Ekiti State. It also featured senior officials from the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, representatives of the NDLEA and other government agencies.

Other dignitaries in attendance included the Senior Special Assistant to the Akwa Ibom State Governor on Lagos Liaison, Michael Effiong.

Governor Eno reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to youth development and public health advocacy, stating that long-term progress depends on reducing substance abuse and expanding opportunities for young people.