Why we must eradicate drug abuse among young people — Lions Club

THE Yaba Lions Club, District 404A3, has called for urgent and sustained efforts to eradicate drug abuse among young people, describing the growing trend as a major threat to societal and mental well-being.

The President of the club, Samuel Ojo, made the call in Lagos during the inauguration of four refurbished toilets at the Yaba College of Technology (Yabatech) Staff Primary School.

Ojo said tackling drug abuse must begin early, stressing that children require proper guidance, monitoring and education to avoid falling into substance use.

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“Drug abuse has become a major societal problem that requires collective action.

“We need to fight it from a young age by ensuring that teachers and parents are intentional in guiding children and educating them on the dangers associated with illicit drug use,” he said.

He linked rising substance abuse to increasing mental health challenges among young people, noting that early intervention remains critical to prevention.

Also speaking, a past Council Chairperson of Lions Multiple District 404 Nigeria, Anogi Anyanwu, said the organisation had intensified campaigns against drug abuse as part of its community impact efforts.

Anyanwu described drug abuse as a key contributor to mental health issues, adding that the club would continue sensitisation in schools and public spaces.

He said awareness materials were distributed during the event to educate pupils and the wider community on the dangers of substance abuse.

The drug abuse advocacy formed part of a broader community service initiative by the club, which included the refurbishment of toilet facilities at the school to improve sanitation and promote a healthier learning environment.

Governor of Lions International District 404A3 Nigeria, Mary Onu, said the project was based on a needs assessment conducted within the school community.

“Before we undertake any project, we ask what the people actually need.

“When we engaged with the school, the toilets were identified as a priority, and that informed our intervention,” she said.

Onu added that the project was part of ongoing efforts by the district to impact communities through targeted and need-based initiatives.

Chairman of the school’s Board of Governors, Abiodun Ashiru, commended the club for the intervention, describing it as a reflection of the importance of collaboration between non-governmental organisations and educational institutions.

He said the refurbished facilities would provide a cleaner and safer environment for pupils, while also encouraging proper hygiene practices.

Similarly, the Head Teacher, Adeniyi Rasak, expressed appreciation to the club, assuring that the facilities would be properly maintained.

The event also featured the distribution of exercise books to pupils and the unveiling of reusable shopping bags to promote environmental sustainability.