FIC Report (Imo State) – As part of efforts to combat drug abuse among young people and promote responsible career development, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) , the Nigerian Navy in collaboration with the Nsokpo Dynamic Association (NDA), organised a sensitisation programme for students of Presentation Secondary School, Ogbaku, in Mbaitoli Local Government Area of Imo State.
The initiative was held in commemoration of the United Nations International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, observed annually on June 26 across the world to create awareness on the dangers of drug abuse and the need for collective action against illicit drug trafficking.
The 2026 observance, themed “Say Yes to Life. Say No to Drugs – It Kills,” attracted stakeholders from various sectors, including community leaders, security agencies, healthcare professionals and educators, all united in delivering a strong message to young people on the importance of making positive and impactful life choices.
Speaking during the event, President of the Nsokpo Dynamic Association, Mr. Mark Onyejiaka, highlighted the growing threat posed by drug abuse among Nigerian youths and emphasized the need for communities to work closely with relevant institutions in addressing the challenge.
He commended the collaboration between the association and the NDLEA, describing it as an example of effective community-based intervention targeted at protecting young people from the destructive effects of drug abuse.
According to Onyejiaka, drug abuse goes beyond damaging the health of individuals, it also destroys ambitions, disrupts families and deprives society of the contributions of talented young people.
He noted that the programme was organised because the organisers believe in the potential of every student and are determined to assist them make right decisions that will secure a brighter future.
The programme featured an extensive presentation by officers of the NDLEA, who educated the students on the dangers associated with drug abuse and illicit drug trafficking. Using real-life examples and current statistics, the officers explained how substance abuse continues to affect the lives of many young Nigerians, often resulting in health complications, academic decline, criminal involvement and lost opportunities.
The students were also enlightened on the legal consequences of engaging in drug-related activities and were encouraged to resist peer pressure and other influences that could lead them into substance abuse.
Medical personnel from the Nigerian Navy also provided detailed information on the health implications of drug use. They explained both the immediate and long-term effects of substance abuse on the human body, particularly the brain and the other vital organs. The medical experts warned that prolonged drug use can negatively affect mental health, impair judgment and reduce an individual’s ability to achieve personal and professional goals.
The event featured a motivational career talk by Dr. Chika Umunnakwe , titled “Dreaming Big for the Future: Why the Choices You Make Today Matter.”
She encouraged the students to set ambitious goals for themselves and remain focused on achieving them through discipline, hard work and positive decision-making.
Dr. Umunnakwe emphasised that the choices made during adolescence often have lasting consequences and advised the students to avoid behaviours that could jeopardise their future aspirations. She particularly cautioned against involvement in drug abuse and trafficking, noting that a single wrong decision could destroy years of effort, education and preparation.
The programme was interactive as it allowed students to actively participate through question-and-answer sessions following both the anti-drug awareness presentations and the career development lecture.
Their passionate responses portrayed a keen interest in understanding the challenges facing young people and the opportunities available to those who make responsible choices.
In his remarks, the Principal of Presentation Secondary School Ogbaku, Reverend Father Joachim Onyeagam, voiced appreciation to the Nsokpo Dynamic Association, the NDLEA and the Nigerian Navy for selecting the school as a venue for the sensitisation campaign describing it as timely and impactful. He noted that it would contribute significantly to shaping the attitudes and behaviour of the students while helping them make right decisions about their future.
Reaffirming its dedication to community development, the Nsokpo Dynamic Association revealed plans to extend the programme to more schools across Mbaitoli Local Government Area. The expansion according to the association forms part of its broader vision of promoting a drug-free society and empowering young people with the knowledge and guidance needed to become responsible citizens.
The event was concluded with a message of hope and encouragement, urging the students to remain focused on their dreams and reject all forms of drug abuse.
AKUSHIE, CHIOMA MARK HELEN.
FIC., OWERRI
25/06/2026
