To curb the rising tide of drug abuse among youths, major government and community stakeholders in Rivers State have launched a coordinated, state-wide campaign targeting schools, communities, and public spaces.
This move, led by the Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) in strategic partnership with the Southern Base Development Initiative (SBDI), brings together the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Federal Road Safety Corps, Nigeria Police Force, and local education authorities in a unified effort to tackle the scourge of substance misuse.
Speaking at the launch event held at Community Secondary School Amadi-Ama, Port Harcourt, NDDC officials described the campaign as a “multi-dimensional sensitization drive” designed to equip young people with knowledge, resilience, and practical tools to resist the lure of drugs.
The programme coincides with the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, reinforcing a global call to action.
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The campaign features school visits, interactive lectures, peer mentoring, and community engagement activities, including a high-visibility road walk spanning major Port Harcourt landmarks from Mile One to Mile Three.
However, participants distributed educational flyers, branded T-shirts, and caps, ensuring the anti-drug message reaches students and residents alike.
NDLEA coordinators highlighted the wider societal impact of drug abuse, citing threats to mental health, academic performance, and community stability.
They urged residents to collaborate with law enforcement agencies to identify and dismantle local drug networks.
School authorities expressed gratitude for the initiative, describing it as a vital intervention that empowers youths to make informed choices and embrace healthier lifestyles.
“This campaign equips our students with the knowledge and confidence to reject destructive behaviours,” said the principal of Government Secondary School Oginigba.
The partnership between NDDC and SBDI represents a model for collaborative leadership in tackling complex social challenges.
Officials stressed that sustained engagement, education, and community involvement are essential to achieving a drug-free youth population and building resilient communities across Rivers State.
With this coordinated approach, Rivers State positions itself as a regional leader in anti-drug initiatives, offering a replicable framework for continuous youth empowerment and community safety programs across the Niger Delta.
