Abuja: 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, highlighted the initiative’s focus on raising awareness about the dangers of drug abuse and promoting healthier living among young people.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the event was themed ‘From Awareness to Action: Together We Can End Drug Abuse’ and was organised by DFWA with support from various stakeholders. Okereke emphasised the importance of collective action in tackling drug abuse, noting that the organisation is 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.
Okereke explained that the newly launched workbook is designed to empower youth with knowledge and strengthen prevention efforts, marking the beginning of a renewed campaign to address drug misuse in Nigeria. She stated, ‘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.’ She further stressed the need for increased investment in prevention programmes and sustained efforts to address the root causes of substance abuse.
DFWA’s work spans seven African countries and 23 states in Nigeria, engaging more than 165 schools and over 50 communities. The organisation has trained more than 50,000 teachers, delivered 25 school programmes, held 35 parent-teacher workshops, and distributed over one million educational booklets. Additionally, they have supported vulnerable children through rehousing initiatives and introduced 5,000 early-years drug education leaflets.
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 at the event, 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 reports that the event was attended by victims, students, and youths, who participated in discussions and activities focused on preventing drug abuse.