…as Lagos takes campaign to Caleb University

By James Ogunnaike, Abeokuta

The First Lady of Lagos State, Dr. Claudiana Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, on Thursday reiterated that drug addiction remains one of the greatest threats to the future of young people and the overall development of society.

Speaking at an awareness campaign and walk against drug abuse held at Caleb University, Imota, to commemorate the 2026 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, Mrs. Sanwo-Olu urged students to shun illicit substances and become champions of a drug-free society.

The programme organized by the Office of the First Lady of Lagos State, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and Caleb University, Imota, marked the extension of the state’s anti-drug advocacy campaign to Caleb University, the first private university in Lagos to host the initiative.

The programme has as itotheme: “The World Drug Problem: Persisting Issues, New Challenges, Innovative Responses”

Addressing students, academics and stakeholders, the First Lady described drug abuse as a growing menace with devastating consequences on mental health, education, productivity and social relationships.

“Drug abuse may offer temporary excitement, but it ultimately destroys dreams, health, education, careers and lives,” she said.

She noted that addiction cuts across age, gender and social status, stressing that victims should be supported rather than stigmatised.

“We must embrace compassion, encourage rehabilitation and create opportunities for recovery and reintegration. Those struggling with addiction need support, not condemnation,” she added.

Mrs. Sanwo-Olu reaffirmed her commitment to combating substance abuse through strategic partnerships involving the NDLEA, relevant state ministries, local government councils, community leaders, market associations and non-governmental organisations.

According to her, the state government has continued to deploy stakeholder engagements, sensitisation programmes, advocacy walks and youth-focused initiatives such as the Lagos Boy Child Initiative to discourage substance abuse among young people.

As part of efforts to sustain the campaign at the institution, War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) Club was inaugurated, alongside the decoration of WADA Champions.

“My message is simple and clear ‘say no’ to drug abuse and ‘yes to life’, purpose and a brighter future. Together, we can win this fight,” the First Lady declared.

Earlier, the wife of the Lagos State Deputy Governor, Mrs. Oluremi Hamzat, called on students to resist negative influences and avoid the temptation of seeking quick success through illicit means.

“Drugs may offer a temporary escape, but they can create permanent consequences,” she warned.

“I encourage our youth to stay focused on their education, embrace positive values and reject every form of substance abuse. Do not be pressured by negative influences or the desire for quick success.”

Mrs. Hamzat stressed the need for collective action involving parents, schools, faith-based organisations, communities and government institutions to raise a generation of responsible and purpose-driven youths.

She also led students in a pledge against drug abuse and human trafficking, urging them to become advocates for positive change in their communities.

Representing the NDLEA, officials of the agency reminded participants that the fight against drug abuse requires the active involvement of families, schools and community leaders.

“You do not need drugs or any form of substance abuse to live a successful and fulfilling life,” the agency stated.

The NDLEA reiterated its commitment to prevention, advocacy, enforcement, rehabilitation and public enlightenment, emphasizing that protecting young people from substance abuse remains central to its mandate.

In his welcome address, the Vice-Chancellor of Caleb University, Prof. Olalekan Asikhia, described drug abuse as a serious threat to national development and called for innovative responses to tackle emerging challenges associated with illicit substances.

“The menace of substance abuse continues to evolve. New synthetic substances, shifting trafficking routes and the vulnerabilities of our young population present fresh challenges that demand innovative and evidence-based responses,” he said.

Prof. Asikhia reaffirmed the university’s commitment to maintaining a drug-free campus and promoting mental wellness among students.

“As a university, we recognise our role not only as a centre of academic excellence but also as a moral compass and a community of change agents. Caleb University stands firm in its resolve to foster a drug-free environment and equip students with the resilience needed to reject illicit substances,” he added.

The programme featured an awareness walk, advocacy sessions, expert presentations and student engagement activities aimed at strengthening anti-drug consciousness among youths.