The Global President of the Asiwaju Dapo Wahab Foundation, Asiwaju Dapo Wahab, has called for stronger collaboration among stakeholders in the fight against drug abuse and trafficking in Ogun State.
Wahab made the call during the inauguration of anti-drug advocates organised by the foundation in collaboration with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, Ogun State Command, and Foundation for a Drug-Free World International, held at Commerce House, Abeokuta.
He described substance abuse as a growing menace threatening the future of youths as well as the peace and stability of families and communities.
Wahab said the foundation partnered with community leaders, religious organisations, media practitioners and other stakeholders because the campaign against illicit drugs required collective responsibility.
He said, “We cannot do it alone. We need collaborators and partners with integrity whose voices people respect. Together, we can build a drug-free society.”
He urged youths to remain focused and channel their energy into productive ventures instead of substance abuse.
“The youth are the leaders of tomorrow. Anyone addicted to drugs cannot fulfil leadership potential. They must stay focused and work towards a brighter future,” he added.
Speaking at the event, the Ogun State Commander of NDLEA, Commander Tijani Rabe, warned youths against drug abuse, saying addiction often starts when individuals believe they are still in control.
“You may think you are in charge at the beginning, but by the time drugs take over, your family and community will face a herculean task trying to rescue you from dependency and addiction,” he said.
Rabe stressed that substance abuse destroys ambitions, families and societal values, urging young people to avoid activities capable of ruining their future.
Also speaking, Oladimeji Lasile described drug abuse as a serious social problem that should not be ignored because of its devastating effects on individuals and families.
According to him, the newly inaugurated advocates would help spread anti-drug messages across grassroots communities.
“The NDLEA cannot be everywhere, but with stronger voices in various communities, the message against drug abuse and trafficking will spread faster,” he said.
One of the anti-drug advocates inaugurated at the event, Akinyode Olawumi, said he was encouraged by the recognition of his advocacy efforts spanning over two decades.
Olawumi disclosed that he had once battled substance abuse before quitting in 1992, adding that the experience motivated him to educate youths on the dangers of illicit drugs.
“I used drugs heavily until November 18, 1992. Since then, I have never gone back. That is why I now speak to others so they do not fall into the same trap,” he said.
