Lagos First Lady leads anti-drug abuse awareness campaign at LASU
By Adeola Ogunrinde –
The First Lady of Lagos State, Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, has emphasized the role of awareness in curbing drug abuse and illicit trafficking. She made this known during a sensitization campaign at Lagos State University (LASU), Ojo Campus, to mark the 2025 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.
Themed “The Evidence is Clear, Invest in Prevention,” the event featured a walk across the LASU campus, engaging students, faculty, and key stakeholders. Participants included officials from relevant Lagos State ministries and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).
Dr. Sanwo-Olu described substance abuse as a “silent killer and destiny destroyer,” urging students to seek help without fear of stigma. She called on parents, women, and community leaders to support grassroots initiatives and prioritize early intervention.
“The walk, drama presentations, and interactive sessions were not just symbolic but strategic in enlightening students about the dangers of drug abuse. This campaign is a call to action to invest in prevention and show compassion to those struggling with addiction,” she said.
Lagos NDLEA Commander, Mr. Abubakar Wali, also addressed participants, warning of the mental health and security risks posed by drug abuse. He reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to reducing substance use, especially among youth vulnerable to societal pressures.
LASU Vice Chancellor, Professor Ibiyemi Tunji-Bello, lauded the initiative and cited alarming statistics showing that over 14.3 million Nigerian youths aged 15 to 20 have engaged in drug use. She urged collective responsibility from parents, religious leaders, and educators.
The event concluded with an award presentation to Dr. Sanwo-Olu in recognition of her efforts in combating drug abuse and for spearheading the awareness campaign at LASU ahead of the global observance on June 26.
Students clad in black T-shirts and caps marched across campus with placards bearing messages like “Say No to Drug Abuse,” “You Can Quit If You Seek Help,” and “Drug Trafficking is Illegal and Punishable Under the Law.”
