The First Lady of Lagos State, Dr Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, has called on stakeholders to strengthen advocacy, deepen public sensitisation, and mobilise collective action against the growing menace of drug abuse and illicit trafficking.
Sanwo-Olu, who spoke yesterday during an awareness campaign and walk against drug abuse in commemoration of the 2026 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking held at Caleb University, Imota, stated that the observance of the Day serves as a reminder of the devastating impact of substance abuse on individuals, families, communities, and nations.
She stated: “It challenges us to work together to prevent drug misuse and support those affected by addiction.
“I am particularly delighted that this campaign has brought us to Caleb University, thereby making the university the third tertiary institution we have visited since the commencement of this initiative and the first private university in Lagos State to participate in this important advocacy.
“This underscores our commitment to ensuring that the anti-drug message reaches every segment of our society, especially our young people who represent the future of our nation.”
The governor’s wife noted that this year’s event, themed “The World Drug Problem: Persisting Issues, New Challenges, Innovative Responses,” aptly captures the reality of the time. Sanwo-Olu added that while long-standing drug-related problems continue to exist, new patterns of substance abuse are emerging, requiring innovative, evidence-based, and collaborative responses from governments, institutions, families, and communities.
Meanwhile, according to reports from the United Nations (UN), millions of people across the world suffer from drug use disorders, yet only a fraction have access to the treatment and rehabilitation services they need.
“Drug abuse remains one of the greatest threats confronting our youth today. It affects mental health, academic performance, productivity, personal relationships, and overall well-being.
“More disturbing is the fact that addiction does not discriminate. It cuts across age, gender, social status, and educational background. While young people are often the focus of anti-drug campaigns, many adults and even parents silently struggle with substance dependency and its consequences.
“Sadly, society is often quick to stigmatise victims of addiction rather than understand the circumstances that led them into substance abuse or support them on the path to recovery.”
