Lagos govt urges students to steer clear of drug abuse

The Lagos State Government has urged all students in the state to refrain from drug abuse in order to reach their full potential.

Pharm Mrs. Toyin Oke-Osanyintolu, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Youth and Social Development, made this statement during the Official Flag Off Ceremony and Sensitisation Campaign Against Drug Abuse in Schools at Government Girls’ College, Agege, Wednesday.

She highlighted that alarming statistics indicate that a significant number of individuals, including students, are becoming substance or drug addicts daily, straying from the paths that lead to personal fulfillment.

“As the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Youth and Social Development, this School Advocacy Campaign Against Drug Abuse aligns with our goal of creating a safe learning environment where students can thrive, free from the influence of drugs. Every great nation relies on its youth, who each harbor dreams of greatness, making a difference, and living fulfilled lives. However, these dreams can only be realized when the mind is clear, the body is healthy, and the spirit is strong. Sadly, drug abuse threatens the preservation of these dreams,” she stated.

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The Permanent Secretary encouraged students to concentrate on their studies, exercise self-discipline, and believe in their capacity to achieve their dreams despite any challenges they may face.

In a similar message, Rev. (Dr) Dele Ajayi, Presiding Chaplain of the Chapel of Christ the Light, along with Dr. Idowu Olufunke Oyetola, Tutor General/Permanent Secretary, represented by the Director of School’s Administration, Mrs. Maria Olufunmilayo Ojo, advised students to avoid all forms of substance and drug abuse if they wish to secure bright and successful futures that would bring joy to their parents and pride to their country.

Resource persons Dr. Mariam Ibrahim, Mrs. Bolanle Idowu, and Aminat Yusuf educated the students on “The Danger of Drug Abuse” and “Understanding the Legal Consequences of Drug Abuse,” emphasizing the severe damage that drug abuse can inflict on individuals.

The school advocacy campaign against drug abuse is a key initiative of Lagos State Kicks Against Drug Abuse (LASKADA), part of the Ministry of Youth and Social Development, aimed at educating, empowering, engaging, and protecting young people to say NO to drugs and YES to life through extensive awareness programs. Mr. Lukmon Kotun currently leads the unit.