It has been confirmed over time that drug abuse is the excessive use of psychoactive drugs, such as alcohol, pain medications or illegal drugs, Which lead to physical, social or emotional harm.

With the number of drug abuse cases on the increase among youngsters, some has taken it upon themselves to tackle the plight from the foundational curve, building more awareness in schools to swivel young minds from indulging in the acts

Marking the Rotary day of service in Ikorodu division, volunteer members of the Rotary Club of Ikorodu metro, Golden, Owutu Isawo and Igbe midland converged students from public schools at the teacher’s house on the 23rd of February 2022 for orientation purposes

The program in partnership with the Local Government education authority (LGEA) and the Nigeria Drug law enforcement agencies (NDLEA) initiated a one-day seminar to establish an awareness campaign against drug abuse at the primary school level for pupils within the ages of 8-12yrs old

Themed, ‘Say no to drugs, it featured guest speakers from both the LGEA and NDLEA, admonishing learners on how to disconnect themselves from becoming a drug user, thus living a healthy life

At the high point of the seminar, pupils were told that substance abuse is not a habit they should take lightly. It occurs when people use alcohol, prescription medicine, and other legal and illegal substances too much or in the wrong way.

It was added that substance abuse differs from addiction. Many people with substance abuse problems can quit or can change their unhealthy behaviour. Addiction, on the other hand, is a disease. It means an individual can not stop using it, even when their condition causes them harm

Rotaract Oduntan Nurudeen (remarking on the essence of the event to Ikorodu News Network), stated that it has become crucial to take the campaign to primary schools, given caution to young lads on the dangers attached to subscribing to drugs illegally

“We have noticed that it all starts with the ones who are dropouts, staying idle and doing nothing, it follows with bad influences and leads to adopting a negative lifestyle which includes drug abuse”

“This program is targetted at the primary school students from the ages of 8-12yrs old, and subsequently, we’re going to reach out to the older ones (ages of 12-18yrs) in the next 2 months which we have prioritised to run this program effectively”

“3 primary public schools from each LCDA in Ikorodu division were fully represented, which is done to mark our 2021-2022 rotary day of service” Rtn Oduntan Nurudeen asserted