By Nnasom David

The Adorable Foundation International (AFI) has called on Nigerian youths to reject drug abuse and embrace positive lifestyles, warning that substance abuse remains a major driver of insecurity, crime, and lost opportunities among young people.

Speaking during a press briefing in Abuja ahead of the foundation’s Awareness Campaign Against Drug Abuse (ASACADA) activities, AFI Founder Princess Ada Okeke said young people must take the lead in combating the growing menace of drug abuse, stressing that the future of the nation depends on a healthy and productive youth population.

According to her, many acts of violence and insecurity are committed under the influence of drugs, making the fight against substance abuse a collective responsibility involving government agencies, parents, schools, religious leaders, the media, and civil society organisations.

“We want the youth to understand that drugs destroy lives and futures. Nigeria cannot move forward without its young people. They must not allow drugs to take over their lives,” she said.

Okeke noted that AFI has partnered with agencies including the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and the Nigeria Police Force to expand awareness campaigns and educate young people on the dangers associated with substance abuse.

She explained that the foundation has adopted innovative approaches, including engaging beauty queens and youth ambassadors, to connect with younger audiences and drive anti-drug messages across schools and communities.

Also speaking, anti-drug advocate and youth campaigner, Queen Divine Innocent described drug abuse among Nigerian youths as alarming, citing statistics indicating that millions of Nigerians are affected by substance abuse.

She said AFI’s school outreach programmes have focused on educating students about the dangers of drugs while establishing anti-drug ambassadors in schools to sustain awareness efforts.

“We don’t just visit schools and leave. We create ambassadors who continue spreading the message and help identify students who may be struggling with substance abuse so they can receive support,” she said.

Innocent disclosed that the initiative has established anti-drug ambassadors in more than 30 schools across Abuja, Lagos and Anambra State, adding that the campaign also extends to hospitals where victims of substance abuse are often encountered.

She urged youths to embrace healthier lifestyles and resist peer pressure, noting that many talented young people have had their dreams cut short because of drug addiction.

The foundation pledged to continue championing anti-drug campaigns through mentorship, social media advocacy, community engagement and peer education.

AFI further appealed to individuals, corporate organisations and development partners to support its ongoing efforts to curb drug abuse and save vulnerable youths from addiction noting that sustained awareness, community participation and youth-driven advocacy remain critical to winning the fight against drug abuse in Nigeria.