Lagos First Lady Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu Campaigns Against Drug Abuse

Lagos First Lady Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu has campaigned against drug abuse.

Eko Hot News reports that the First Lady of Lagos State, Dr. Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, has underscored the need for robust awareness campaigns as a frontline defence against drug abuse and illicit trafficking.

The Lagos First Lady made the call during a high-impact sensitization campaign held at the Lagos State University (LASU) Ojo Campus, to mark the 2025 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.

Themed “The Evidence is Clear, Invest in Prevention,” the event was anchored by a vibrant campus walk, dramatic presentations, and interactive sessions designed to engage students and stakeholders alike.

Addressing the LASU community, Mrs Sanwo-Olu described drug abuse as a “silent killer and destiny destroyer,” calling for early intervention and active community engagement.

She urged young people to seek help without fear of stigmatisation and charged parents, women, and community leaders to become vocal champions of grassroots prevention efforts.

“The walk, drama presentations, and interactive sessions were not only symbolic but strategic in enlightening the student community about the dangers of drug abuse,” she said.

“This campaign is a call to action for all of us to invest in prevention and show compassion to those struggling with addiction,” she added.

The campaign drew participation from key government agencies, including Tertiary Education, Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, the Ministries of Youth and Social Development, Health, as well as the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).

Speaking at the event, Abubakar Wali, Lagos State Commander of the NDLEA, expressed grave concern about the toll drug abuse is taking on both mental health and national security.

“We are intensifying our efforts, especially among youths who are most vulnerable to the influence of peers and societal pressures,” Wali declared.

LASU’s Vice Chancellor, Professor Ibiyemi Tunji-Bello, applauded the initiative and sounded an alarm over the rising number of drug users among young Nigerians.

“Statistics show that over 14.3 million Nigerians between the ages of 15 and 20 have used drugs,” she noted, adding that “This is a national crisis that requires collective intervention from parents, traditional institutions, religious leaders, and schools.”

The campaign reached its climax with the presentation of an award to Sanwo-Olu, recognising her unwavering commitment to championing awareness and prevention efforts, especially among students.

Students dressed in black T-shirts and caps carried bold placards with messages such as “You Can Quit If You Seek Help,” “Say No to Drug Abuse,” and “Drug Trafficking is Illegal and Punishable Under the Law,” echoing the urgency of the moment.