The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency teamed up with gospel saxophonist Omotola Ekerin to raise awareness about the dangers of substance abuse among students in Ejigbo.
At a sensitization event hosted at Ejigbo Stadium, NDLEA officials, and the musician, popularly known as “Omotola Sax,” engaged with over 500 students, shedding light on the risks associated with illicit drugs to discourage local abuse.
Titilope Ologunluyi from NDLEA provided educational insights to the young participants, highlighting the various ways harmful substances can be consumed—inhalation, injection, or ingestion. She emphasized the importance of steering clear of negative company and habits that could potentially lead to addiction.
Ologunluyi shared alarming statistics, revealing that over 296 million individuals globally have grappled with drug addiction, a fate the agency is fervently working to prevent from impacting more young people. She issued a stark warning about the devastating effects of drug abuse on the central nervous system and one’s future prospects.
“NDLEA is not only about the arrest of drug abusers but also sensitizes and brings people to the knowledge of the dangers of drug abuse.
“Drug abuse destroys the central nervous system as well as the future of a victim. You can hear the number of those addicted, we do not want you to add to the numbers.
“Regardless of whatever you are going through, drug abuse is not an option because it will not solve your problems but only compound the problem.
“At any point you feel you have engaged in drug abuse and need help please quickly speak up,” she said.
In her remarks, Ekerin said her musical concert and talk were arranged after worrying over high substance abuse rates among youth. She urged them to embrace godly values and positive ambitions instead.
“Children, you are the future of tomorrow, run away from the consumption of illicit drugs, it will kill your dreams and destroy your future. You are the leaders of tomorrow.
“Be mindful of the habit to imitate from your friends, I want you all to cultivate Godly morals, ” she said.
A school administrator, Shola Ijaola, criticized the lack of adequate official support for anti-drug campaigns despite rampant youth addiction. She pressed parents to act as good examples.
The occasion featured students performing anti-drug poems and Ejigbo residents treated to rousing musical showcases by Ekerin, who headlined her “Alabaster Concert” after the awareness event.
(NAN)
