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🇳🇬 Nigeria /Crime & Justice

Imo community partners NDLEA, Navy in fight against drug abuse

From The Punch · () English

Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

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  • A community association in Imo State, Nigeria, partnered with the NDLEA and Nigerian Navy for a drug awareness program targeting secondary school students.
  • The initiative aimed to educate youth on the dangers of drug use and trafficking, emphasizing positive life choices ahead of World Drug Day.
  • Officials shared real-life examples and data, while a career talk encouraged students to focus on their future, warning that drug-related decisions can derail hard work.

In Imo State, Nigeria, the Nsokpo Dynamic Association (NDA) has joined forces with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and the Nigerian Navy to conduct drug awareness and career talks for secondary school students. The program, held at Presentation Secondary School in Ogbaku, Owerri, ahead of the June 26 World Drug Day, aims to guide young people toward making positive life choices.

Nsokpo Dynamic Association President Mark Onyejiaka stressed the critical need for the initiative, stating, "This is not an ordinary gathering. Drugs destroy dreams, break families and ruin futures. We believe in every young person here." The association plans to extend this program to more schools within the Mbaitoli Local Government Area, reinforcing a message of hope and potential.

This is not an ordinary gathering. Drugs destroy dreams, break families and ruin futures. We believe in every young person here.

— Mark OnyejiakaPresident of the Nsokpo Dynamic Association, emphasizing the importance of the drug awareness program.

NDLEA officials presented real-life case studies and current data to illustrate the severe dangers associated with drug abuse and trafficking among Nigerian youth. Medical personnel from the Navy provided detailed insights into how drug usage negatively impacts the developing mind and body. A 2025 study highlighted concerning statistics for adolescents in Imo State, with significant percentages reporting consumption of alcohol, tramadol, and cannabis.

During a career talk, D. Chika Umunnakwe urged students to remain focused on their aspirations, warning that a single decision involving drug usage or trafficking could negate years of effort. The interactive session allowed students to ask questions and receive direct responses, fostering engagement. School Principal Rev. Fr. Joachim Onyeagam expressed gratitude to the organizers for bringing the vital program to the school.

Your future is bright. Your potential is limitless. Together, we declare: Yes, to life. No to drugs.

— Mark OnyejiakaEncouraging students during the drug awareness and career talk event.
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Originally published by The Punch. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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