Sanwo-Olu, Hamzat lead anti-drug walk, urge youths against substance abuse

By Adeola Ogunrinde

First Lady of Lagos State, Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, and the wife of the Deputy Governor, Oluremi Hamzat, on Thursday urged young people to become ambassadors in the fight against drug abuse and illicit trafficking.

The appeal was made during a walk organised at Caleb University to commemorate the 2026 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking. The event was held under the theme, “The World Drug Problem: Persisting Issues, New Challenges, Innovative Responses.”

In attendance were students and staff of the university, alongside government officials, representatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), and other stakeholders committed to tackling substance abuse.

Speaking at the event, Dr. Sanwo-Olu said the theme reflects both longstanding and emerging patterns of drug abuse that require collaborative, innovative and evidence-based responses from all segments of society.

She noted that addiction affects people regardless of age, gender or social status, stressing that victims should be supported through rehabilitation and recovery programmes rather than being stigmatized or isolated.

The first lady reaffirmed her office’s commitment to combating drug abuse through partnerships with the NDLEA, relevant ministries, non-governmental organisations, community leaders and local government authorities. She also highlighted initiatives such as the Lagos Boy Child Initiative and noted that Caleb University is the third tertiary institution to benefit from the campaign after Lagos State University and University of Lagos.

Addressing the students, she warned that substance abuse may offer temporary excitement but ultimately destroys dreams, health, education and career prospects. She encouraged them to discourage drug use among their peers and support those struggling with addiction.

In separate remarks, Oluremi Hamzat cautioned students against drug abuse, describing it as a threat to their future and opportunities for success. In the same vein, the Vice Chancellor of Caleb University, Olalekan Asikhia, said the institution remains committed to maintaining a drug-free environment, while NDLEA Deputy Commander for Drug Demand Reduction in Lagos, Ogunluyi Titilope, urged students to help create awareness, report drug traffickers and serve as positive role models in their communities.