Government agencies, civil society organisations, educators, parents and youth advocates have renewed their commitment to protecting young Nigerians from the dangers of substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking.
The commitment was made in Abuja during the 2026 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, commemorated by Adorable Foundation International through its Societal Awareness Campaign Against Drug Abuse (ASACADA).
The event featured the grand finale of Queen ASACADA 4.0 and the launch of the foundation’s anti-drug awareness book, aimed at strengthening preventive education among young people.
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Delivering her welcome address, the Founder of Adorable Foundation International and Convener of ASACADA, Princess Ada Okeke, described prevention as the most effective approach to tackling substance abuse among young people.
She said the foundation’s programmes are designed to educate students before they become vulnerable to peer pressure, misinformation and other negative influences.
“Our goal is to equip young people with the knowledge and confidence to make informed decisions and reject drug abuse. We believe young people want to be heard and actively involved, which is why our programmes encourage interaction with professionals and positive role models,” she said.
Okeke noted that more than 15 schools participated in this year’s campaign, describing the growing turnout as evidence of increasing support from schools, parents and community stakeholders.
She also commended the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), the Nigeria Police Force, Cancer Sisters and other partner organisations for their continued collaboration in promoting drug-free communities.
National Youth Coordinator of Adorable Foundation International, Mr Udochukwu Azike, described drug abuse as a major national challenge with far-reaching social and economic consequences.
According to him, substance abuse affects families, contributes to criminal activities, reduces productivity and undermines national development.
Azike acknowledged the efforts of the NDLEA and the Nigeria Police Force in combating illicit drug trafficking and promoting public awareness on drug prevention.
He explained that the Queen ASACADA initiative was established to encourage leadership, advocacy and community service among young women.
“Every contestant represents a voice against drug abuse and a beacon of hope for thousands of young Nigerians. Beauty is most meaningful when it is used to inspire positive social change,” he said.
He added that the launch of the anti-drug campaign book would further strengthen awareness and extend preventive messages to more communities across the country.
Also speaking, the National President of the National Council of Women Societies (NCWS), Princess Edna Azura, represented by Mrs Saratu Abomann, emphasised the importance of moral values and discipline in nation-building.
She observed that social challenges such as drug abuse, cultism, cybercrime, examination malpractice and violence often stem from declining moral standards and a lack of discipline.
Addressing students, she encouraged them to resist negative peer pressure, avoid illicit drugs and criminal activities, embrace education and skills acquisition, and become ambassadors of integrity and responsible citizenship.
She also urged parents, teachers and community leaders to play active roles in nurturing good character through mentorship, guidance and positive examples.
The event featured interactive sessions involving students and officials of the NDLEA and the Nigeria Police Force, who educated participants on the health, social and legal consequences of substance abuse.
Organisers said the initiative seeks to strengthen youth engagement, promote preventive education and foster partnerships that will contribute to building safer, healthier and drug-free communities.
The programme concluded with a renewed call for collaboration among government institutions, schools, families, religious bodies, civil society organisations and young people to address substance abuse and safeguard the nation’s future.
