Stakeholders and youth advocates have renewed their commitment to protecting young Nigerians from the dangers of substance abuse during the 2026 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, commemorated in Abuja.
The event, organised by Adorable Foundation International under its Societal Awareness Campaign Against Drug Abuse (ASACADA), featured the grand finale of Queen ASACADA 4.0 and the launch of the foundation’s anti-drug campaign book.
Founder of Adorable Foundation International and Convener of ASACADA, Princess Ada Okeke, said prevention remained the most effective strategy for addressing drug abuse among young people.
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She explained that the foundation’s programmes were designed to educate students before they fell victim to peer pressure, misinformation or other harmful influences.
“Our goal is to equip young people with the knowledge and confidence to make informed decisions and reject drug abuse. We believe today’s youths want to be heard and actively involved, which is why our programmes encourage interaction with professionals and role models,” the Founder stressed.
Princess Okeke commended the growing participation in the initiative, noting that more than 15 schools took part in this year’s campaign, reflecting increasing support from educators, parents and students.
She also appreciated the support of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, the Nigeria Police Force, Cancer Sisters and other partners for their continued collaboration in promoting drug-free communities.
National Youth Coordinator of Adorable Foundation International, Mr Udochukwu Azike, described drug abuse as a national challenge that extends beyond public health concerns.
According to him, substance abuse destroys families, fuels criminal activities, weakens national productivity and threatens the country’s social and economic development.
Azike commended the efforts of the NDLEA and the Nigeria Police Force for their commitment to combating illicit drug trafficking and substance abuse across the country.
He said the Queen ASACADA beauty pageant was established to promote advocacy, leadership and social impact among young women.
“Every contestant represents a voice against drug abuse and a beacon of hope for thousands of young Nigerians. Beauty becomes truly meaningful when it is used to create positive change,” he emphasised.
He also described the launch of the campaign book as another milestone in expanding awareness and ensuring that anti-drug messages continue to reach communities nationwide.
Responsible Leadership
National President of the National Council of Women Societies (NCWS) in Nigeria Pincess Edna Azura says moral values and discipline remain the foundation of responsible leadership, academic excellence, and national development.
Represented by Mrs Saratu Abomann, She warned that social vices such as drug abuse, cultism, cybercrime, examination malpractice, and violence often stem from a decline in moral standards and self-discipline.
Addressing students, she urged them to reject negative peer pressure, avoid drugs and criminal activities, embrace education and skills development, and become ambassadors of integrity and responsible living.
She also called on parents, teachers, and community leaders to play active roles in nurturing good character among young people through positive examples and continuous guidance.
The event featured interactive sessions between students and representatives of the NDLEA and the Nigeria Police Force, providing participants with practical knowledge on the health, social, and legal consequences of drug abuse.
Preventive Education
Organisers said the campaign is aimed at strengthening youth engagement, promoting preventive education, and building partnerships that will contribute to a safer and drug-free Nigeria.
The programme concluded with a renewed call for collective action, as stakeholders urged governments, schools, families, religious institutions, civil society organisations, and young people to work together in safeguarding the nation’s future from the scourge of substance abuse.
