The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) has launched a statewide campaign against substance abuse, targeting secondary schools across Calabar, the Cross River State capital.
The initiative, carried out in collaboration with government agencies, security bodies, and educational institutions, aims to educate students on the dangers of drug abuse, empower them to make informed decisions, and establish student ambassadors to promote awareness.
Declaring the campaign open, NDDC Assistant Director, Dr. Eme Inyangabia, voiced deep concern over the rising prevalence of substance abuse among youths, particularly secondary school students. He reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to tackling the growing crisis with renewed urgency.
Deputy Commander of the Drug Demand Reduction Unit, National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Cross River State Command, Nnadi Roseline Ada, linked substance abuse to increasing mental health challenges and academic decline. She warned that the future of young people remained at significant risk if urgent measures were not taken to curb the menace.
A former drug addict, who spoke anonymously, shared his nine-year struggle with addiction and his journey to recovery. He urged students to stay away from drugs, emphasizing that not everyone may be as fortunate as he was in overcoming addiction.
Stakeholders at the event called for an expansion of the campaign beyond Calabar, stressing the need for continuous engagement through follow-up programs, mentorship initiatives, and peer education. They also highlighted the importance of stronger parental involvement, improved rehabilitation services, and enhanced counseling support to help affected students.
