First Lady of Lagos campaigns against Drug Abuse at LASU
Sanwo-Olu speaking at the event
First Lady of Lagos campaigns against Drug Abuse at LASU
In a spirited push to curb the growing menace of substance abuse among Nigerian youths, the First Lady of Lagos State, Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, has underscored the need for robust awareness campaigns as a frontline defence against drug abuse and illicit trafficking.
She made the call during a high-impact sensitisation campaign held 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 was anchored by a vibrant campus walk, dramatic presentations, and interactive sessions designed to engage students and stakeholders alike.
Addressing the LASU community, Sanwo-Olu described drug abuse as a “silent killer and destiny destroyer,” calling for early intervention and active community engagement.
LASU staff and students leading campaign against drug abuse
She urged young people to seek help without fear of stigmatisation and charged parents, women, and community leaders to become vocal champions of grassroots prevention efforts.
“The walk, drama presentations, and interactive sessions were not only symbolic but strategic in enlightening the student community about the dangers of drug abuse,” she said.
“This campaign is a call to action for all of us to invest in prevention and show compassion to those struggling with addiction,” she added.
The campaign drew participation from key government agencies including the Ministries of Youth and Social Development, Health, Tertiary Education, Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, as well as the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).
Speaking at the event, Lagos State Commander of the NDLEA, Mr. Abubakar Wali, expressed grave concern about the toll drug abuse is taking on both mental health and national security.
“We are intensifying our efforts, especially among youths who are most vulnerable to the influence of peers and societal pressures,” Wali declared.
LASU’s Vice Chancellor, Professor Ibiyemi Tunji-Bello, applauded the initiative and sounded an alarm over the rising numbers of drug users among young Nigerians.
Sanwo-Olu and others say no to drug abuse
“Statistics show that over 14.3 million Nigerians between the ages of 15 and 20 have used drugs,” she noted, adding that “This is a national crisis that requires collective intervention from parents, traditional institutions, religious leaders, and schools.”
The campaign reached its climax with the presentation of an award to Sanwo-Olu, recognising her unwavering commitment to championing awareness and prevention efforts, especially among students.
Dressed in black T-shirts and caps, students carried bold placards with messages such as “You Can Quit If You Seek Help,” “Say No to Drug Abuse,” and “Drug Trafficking is Illegal and Punishable Under the Law,” echoing the urgency of the moment.
The event served as a rallying call to all sectors of society to confront the drug abuse epidemic with compassion, unity, and sustained commitment.
