War on Drugs: First Lady Pushes Prevention, Youth Protection

Nigeria’s First Lady Oluremi Tinubu has intensified calls for preventive strategies in the fight against drug abuse, urging stakeholders to prioritise youth protection and community awareness. Speaking at an anti-drug campaign event, she stressed that prevention remains the most effective approach.

The First Lady highlighted the growing threat of substance abuse among young Nigerians, warning that it undermines education, health, and national productivity. She advocated early intervention through schools, religious institutions, and community groups.

Working alongside the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, she called for stronger collaboration between government agencies, parents, and civil society to tackle the root causes of addiction. These include unemployment, peer pressure, and lack of awareness.

She also emphasised the need for rehabilitation and reintegration programmes rather than solely punitive measures. According to her, affected youths require support systems that help them recover and rebuild their lives.

The campaign includes outreach initiatives, public sensitisation drives, and partnerships with youth organisations to promote healthy lifestyles. Schools are expected to incorporate drug education into their curricula, while local leaders are encouraged to champion awareness efforts.

Experts at the event noted that prevention-focused policies have proven more effective globally than enforcement-only approaches. They urged sustained funding and consistent messaging to ensure long-term impact.

Despite ongoing enforcement efforts, drug trafficking and abuse remain significant challenges in Nigeria. Authorities say tackling demand through education and prevention is key to reducing supply networks.

The First Lady reaffirmed her commitment to protecting Nigerian youths, describing them as the country’s greatest asset. She urged all stakeholders to take collective responsibility in safeguarding future generations.