By Aderogba George
The Drug Free World Africa (DFWA) has officially inaugurated and launched its campaign activities against drug abuse, alongside the release of its first educational workbook leaflet aimed at guiding young people toward a drug-free lifestyle.
The Country Director of DFWA, Dr Lina Okereke, said on Thursday in Abuja that the initiative sought to raise awareness about the dangers of drug abuse and promote healthier living among young people.
The event, themed “From Awareness to Action: Together We Can End Drug Abuse,” was organised by DFWA with support from various stakeholders.
Okereke emphasised the importance of collective action in tackling drug abuse, noting that the organisation was committed to protecting young people and shaping a safer future for Africa.
She referenced the UN Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), which highlighted prevention as a critical strategy.
She explained that the newly launched workbook was designed to empower youth with knowledge and strengthened prevention efforts, marking the beginning of a renewed campaign to address drug misuse in Nigeria.
“With collective action, we can create a brighter future for our youth and our nation. Investing in early prevention remains the most effective way to protect future generations from the scourge of drug abuse.
“There is a need for increased investment in prevention programmes and sustained efforts to address the root causes of substance abuse,” Okereke said.
She further noted that DFWA’s work spanned seven African countries and 23 states in Nigeria.
“The organisation has engaged more than 165 schools and more than 50 communities, trained more than 50,000 teachers, delivered 25 school programmes, held 35 parent–teacher workshops, and distributed more than one million educational booklets.
“We have also supported vulnerable children through rehousing initiatives. And today, we introduce 5,000 early-years drug education leaflets,” she added.
Meanwhile, the keynote speaker, Sen. Patrick Ndubueze, urged parents to monitor and support their children’s mental health, stressing their critical role in preventing drug abuse.
He highlighted the importance of community engagement and collective responsibility in protecting young people and promoting a healthier society.
Also speaking, the Director-General of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Buba Marwa, represented by Dr Etuka Chizoba, reaffirmed the agency’s determination to end drug abuse and substance misuse in Nigeria, pledging continued collaboration with stakeholders.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event was attended by victims, students and youths, who participated in discussions and activities focused on preventing drug abuse. (NAN)
Edited by Abiemwense Moru
