Abuja Nigeria– The African University of Science and Technology (AUST), Abuja, in collaboration with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), the MTN Foundation and other stakeholders, hosted a Drug Abuse Awareness Programme aimed at promoting a drug-free society and strengthening campus safety through advocacy, education and community engagement.
The awareness programme commenced with an aerobic exercise session at Mandela Square on the university campus, bringing together students, staff and partners in a symbolic demonstration of healthy living and collective action against substance abuse.
Following the exercise, participants embarked on a sensitisation walk through the Galadimawa community, engaging residents with key messages on the dangers of drug abuse and the importance of prevention, early intervention and community support. The outreach sought to raise public awareness and encourage shared responsibility in addressing the growing challenge of substance abuse among young people.
The event culminated in an advocacy meeting held at the Raw Materials Research and Development Council (RMRDC) Hall, AUST, where participants held insightful discussions on drug abuse, its devastating effects on individuals and society, and practical strategies for combating its increasing prevalence among Nigerian youths.
The programme featured formal introductions, recognition of distinguished guests, acknowledgements of partner organisations and goodwill messages, all reinforcing the shared commitment of stakeholders to safeguarding young people from the dangers of substance abuse.
In his welcome address, the President of AUST, Prof. Azikiwe Peter Onwualu, FAS, described drug abuse, the emergence of new synthetic substances and the growing influence of online drug markets as serious threats to young people, public health and socio-economic development.
He emphasised that universities have a unique responsibility in preventing substance abuse by nurturing future leaders and serving as centres for knowledge, innovation and social transformation. He further stressed the need to reduce the stigma surrounding substance dependence and mental health challenges, while encouraging early intervention and access to appropriate support services.
Prof. Onwualu called for a whole-of-society approach to tackling drug abuse, noting that governments alone cannot effectively address the problem. He urged universities, families, religious institutions, civil society organisations, development partners, private sector organisations and young people to work collectively towards preventing drug abuse and fostering healthier communities.
He also commended the collaboration between the NDLEA, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), the MTN Foundation, AUST and other partners, describing it as an exemplary model that combines expertise, technology, advocacy, research and community engagement in the fight against substance abuse.
Speaking at the event, Chairman/CEO of NDLEA, Brig.Gen.MB Marwa(Rtd).CON,OFR, represented by the Agency Secretary,Shadrach Haruna reaffirmed the Agency’s commitment to reducing drug demand through sustained public enlightenment, prevention programmes and strategic partnerships with educational institutions. He stressed that drug abuse remains a major public health and security concern with far-reaching consequences for individuals, families and communities.
He encouraged students to make informed choices, resist peer pressure and become ambassadors of the anti-drug campaign within their campuses and communities. He further noted that preventing substance abuse is a shared responsibility that requires continuous awareness, education and collaboration among government agencies, schools, parents, community leaders and development partners.
The programme concluded with a renewed commitment from stakeholders to sustain awareness campaigns, strengthen preventive education and deepen partnerships aimed at creating a safer, healthier and drug-free society for present and future generations.