26/06/2025
PRESS RELEASE
NANS COMMEMORATES 2025 INTERNATIONAL DAY AGAINST DRUG ABUSE AND ILLICIT TRAFFICKING, URGES STUDENTS TO SHUN DRUGS AND CALLS FOR COLLABORATION WITH RELEVANT STAKEHOLDERS TO CURB THIS MENACE
The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) joins the global community in commemorating the 2025 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, themed "The Evidence is Clear: Invest in Prevention." This day serves as a clarion call to action against the growing menace of drug abuse, particularly among Nigerian youths and students.
NANS President, Comrade Olushola L Oladoja, unequivocally condemns drug abuse and its devastating consequences on the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of students.
NANS call on all Nigerian students to shun drug abuse and illicit trafficking. The temporary allure of drugs is a dangerous trap that leads to addiction, academic failure, health deterioration, and ruined futures. As the leaders of tomorrow, students must prioritize their education, personal growth, and positive contributions to society over the fleeting temptations of substance abuse. NANS urges students to embrace healthy lifestyles, seek counselling when needed, and report suspicious drug-related activities on campuses to relevant authorities.
To combat this menace effectively, NANS President, Comrade Oladoja Olushola, calls for stronger collaboration between the Federal Ministries of Education and Youths Development, National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), Heads of tertiary institutions, parents/wards, religious and comminity leaders, civil society organizations, and other critical stakeholders. We propose the establishment of joint task forces, awareness campaigns, and rehabilitation programs tailored to students to curb the spread of drug abuse. NANS is ready to partner with NAFDAC and other agencies to organize workshops, seminars, and community outreach initiatives to educate students on the dangers of drug abuse and promote prevention strategies.
We commend NAFDAC and NDLEA for their ongoing efforts in regulating and combating illicit drugs but urge them to intensify their operations, particularly in targeting drug cartels and peddlers exploiting vulnerable students. We also appeal to the government to increase funding for drug prevention programs, enforce stricter penalties for drug trafficking, and provide accessible rehabilitation centers for those struggling with addiction.
NANS remains committed to advocating for the welfare and future of Nigerian students. Let us unite in saying NO to drugs and YES to a drug-free, prosperous Nigeria. Together, we can end the menace of drug abuse and secure a brighter future for our nation.
Michael Oyewole
Chief Press Secretary to the President, NANS
25 June, 2025
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