As the world commemorates the 2026 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, Special Assistant to the Governor of Delta State on Youth Development, Amb. Onyedikachi M. Odogwu, has called for intensified collaboration among government institutions, security agencies, families, educational institutions, religious bodies, community leaders, civil society organizations, and development partners in the fight against substance abuse.
Speaking during a media interview to mark the global observance, Amb. Odogwu reaffirmed the unwavering commitment of the Delta State Government, under the purposeful leadership of His Excellency, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, to safeguarding the future of young people through deliberate youth-focused policies, strategic partnerships, and sustained investments of which would serve as practical measures for addressing the root causes of drug abuse and youth-related social vices.
According to him, substance abuse remains one of the greatest threats to national development because it destroys dreams, weakens families, fuels insecurity, increases crime, contributes to mental health challenges, and deprives society of the productive contributions of its young population.
“A nation cannot truly develop when its greatest asset its youth is trapped in addiction.
Every young person deserves the opportunity to dream, grow, contribute, and succeed. Drug abuse steals that opportunity, and together we must stop it.”
Amb. Odogwu urged young people across Delta State and Nigeria to reject every form of substance abuse and instead embrace education, entrepreneurship, innovation, vocational skills, leadership, civic responsibility, and productive engagement as pathways to sustainable success.
Reflecting on the 2026 global theme, ” The World Drug Problem: Persisting Issues, New Challenges, Innovative Responses,” could not have come at a more appropriate time. Across the globe, communities are facing increasingly complex drug-related challenges ranging from the abuse of prescription medications and synthetic drugs to the misuse of locally available substances. These evolving threats demand fresh thinking, stronger collaboration, evidence-based policies, and innovative solutions that address both prevention and rehabilitation.
He applauded the relentless efforts of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), healthcare professionals, community volunteers, youth organizations, and other stakeholders whose dedication continues to strengthen the fight against illicit drugs and substance abuse across Nigeria
He further appealed to parents, guardians, teachers, traditional rulers, faith-based organizations, the media, and community influencers to strengthen advocacy and mentorship efforts, stressing that protecting young people from drug abuse is a shared responsibility that demands sustained commitment from every sector of society.
Addressing individuals currently battling substance dependence, Amb. Odogwu encouraged them not to lose hope but to seek professional assistance without fear or stigma, emphasizing that recovery is possible when the right support systems are available.
“Say No to Substance Abuse. Say Yes to Life. Every young person deserves a future free from the chains of addiction. Prevention is our collective responsibility, and recovery remains possible for everyone willing to seek help. Together, let us build a healthier, safer, more productive, and drug-free Delta State and Nigeria.”
He concluded by reaffirming the Delta State Government’s readiness to continue working with the NDLEA, UNODC, development partners, youth organizations, and all relevant stakeholders to strengthen awareness campaigns, promote preventive education, expand rehabilitation initiatives, and build a resilient generation capable of driving sustainable development and national progress.
