Students of Presentation Secondary School, Ogbaku, in Mbaitoli Local Government Area of Imo State have been sensitised on the dangers of drug abuse and the importance of making positive life choices during an awareness programme organised by the Nsokpo Dynamic Association (NDA) in partnership with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and the Nigerian Navy.
The event, held on Tuesday, was organised ahead of the 2026 United Nations International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, observed annually on June 26. This year’s campaign was themed, “Say Yes to Life. Say No to Drugs – It Kills.”
According to a statement issued by the association, the programme brought together community leaders, law enforcement personnel, healthcare professionals and educators to educate young people on the risks associated with substance abuse and the importance of planning for a productive future.
President of the Nsokpo Dynamic Association, Mark Onyejiaka, described drug abuse as a growing threat to young people and stressed the need for communities to work together in addressing the problem.
“Drugs do not merely destroy health – they shatter dreams, tear apart families, and steal futures that were meant to shine. We are here because we believe in the limitless potential of every young person in this hall,” he said.
NDLEA officials delivered presentations on drug abuse and illicit trafficking, using case studies and national data to explain the consequences of substance abuse among young people. The officers also outlined the legal implications of involvement in drug-related offences.
Medical personnel from the Nigerian Navy complemented the session by discussing the health effects of drug use, focusing on both the immediate and long-term impact on physical and mental wellbeing.
A major highlight of the programme was a career development session led by Dr. Chika Umunnakwe, titled, “Dreaming Big for the Future: Why the Choices You Make Today Matter.” The presentation encouraged students to pursue meaningful career goals and avoid decisions that could undermine their future opportunities.
Students actively participated in question-and-answer sessions following the presentations, while the Principal of Presentation Secondary School, Reverend Father Joachim Onyeagam, thanked the organisers for bringing the initiative to the school.
The association said it plans to extend the campaign to more schools across Mbaitoli Local Government Area as part of efforts to promote drug-free communities and support youth development in Imo State.
