Abuja: The Nsokpo Dynamic Association (NDA), in collaboration with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and the Nigerian Navy, has embarked on a significant initiative aimed at educating students about the perils of drug abuse and the importance of career development. This initiative was recently carried out at Presentation Secondary School, Ogbaku, situated in Mbaitoli Local Government Area of Imo.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the NDA President, Mr. Mark Onyejiaka, highlighted that the event was strategically timed to coincide with the United Nations International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, which is observed annually on June 26. The programme was aptly themed: ‘Say Yes to Life. Say No to Drugs – It Kills.’ Onyejiaka underscored the critical threat that drug abuse poses to Nigerian youths, emphasizing the need to combat this menace proactively.
He elaborated on the destructive impact of drugs, pointing out that they not only deteriorate health but also dismantle dreams, fracture family units, and deprive young individuals of promising futures. The sensitisation programme was crafted to empower students with the knowledge needed to make sound life choices. ‘We believe in the limitless potential of every young person and their ability to achieve greatness,’ he stated.
NDLEA officials made significant contributions by presenting the harsh realities of drug abuse and illicit trafficking. Utilizing real-life cases and national statistics, they elucidated the severe consequences associated with substance abuse. Complementing these efforts, medical personnel from the Nigerian Navy educated the students on the health ramifications of drug use, stressing both short-term and long-term effects on physical and mental health.
Additionally, a career talk titled, ‘Dreaming Big for the Future: Why the Choices You Make Today Matter,’ was delivered by Dr. Chika Umunnakwe. He motivated students to chase purposeful careers and steer clear of activities that could jeopardize their futures, cautioning that drug abuse or trafficking could irreversibly hinder educational and career aspirations.
The students were notably engaged, participating enthusiastically in the subsequent question-and-answer sessions, indicating a growing awareness and concern among the youth regarding issues that impact their future and well-being.
Rev. Fr. Joachim Onyeagam, the Principal of Presentation Secondary School, lauded the organisers for their efforts, expressing gratitude to the NDA and its partners for choosing the school for this crucial programme. He recognized the sensitisation as both timely and vital in addressing the challenges facing young people today.
The NDA reiterated its dedication to youth development and community welfare in Ogbaku and beyond. The association also unveiled plans to broaden the scope of the programme, aiming to reach more schools across the Mbaitoli Local Government Area, as part of a broader mission to cultivate a drug-free generation in Imo State.