Presidency backs special committee’s campaign against social vices in schools
The Presidency has reaffirmed its support for the Special Committee on Campaign Against Social Vices in Secondary and Tertiary Institutions, describing its mandate as vital to safeguarding Nigeria’s future.
Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, gave the assurance on Thursday during a meeting with members of the committee led by its chairman, Professor Jerry Ugokwe, at the State House in Abuja.
In a statement on Thursday by Biodun Oladunjoye, Director of Information at the State House, Gbajabiamila said the designation of the body as a special committee underscores the importance of its assignment, which focuses on the moral wellbeing and development of young Nigerians. He warned that rising social vices among youths have become a growing national concern and require deliberate, coordinated intervention.
According to him, although young people are often described as the future of the country, securing that future demands collective action. He noted that many of the Federal Government’s reforms are forward-looking and targeted at the younger generation, cautioning that failure to properly guide and support them could undermine long-term national gains.
The Chief of Staff stressed that addressing social vices requires a whole-of-society approach involving parents, teachers, religious leaders, communities and institutions. He added that the challenge has assumed near-pandemic proportions globally.
He also highlighted the connection between law and morality, describing moral reorientation as fundamental to curbing misconduct in schools and tertiary institutions. Gbajabiamila urged the committee to adopt innovative strategies and adapt to changing realities, drawing from his own experience of engaging students directly during school visits.
As a demonstration of support, he announced a ₦50 million personal donation to the committee’s work, to be released in two tranches starting with ₦25 million. He further assured members of the Federal Government’s readiness to collaborate, including mobilising corporate support through Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives and exploring budgetary provisions.
Earlier, Professor Ugokwe said the committee’s establishment reflects the government’s commitment to confronting social vices among students through structured presidential intervention. He explained that its mandate includes identifying and addressing issues such as cultism, drug abuse, examination malpractice and cybercrime, as well as promoting discipline, responsible leadership and improved campus security.
