The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), in collaboration with the National Association of Seadogs, Hawkins Deck, and the Akowonjo Golden Lions Club, has sensitised children in Akowonjo, Lagos, to the dangers of drug abuse, warning that substance misuse could destroy their future aspirations.
The awareness programme, held on Saturday at Hawkins Deck, Akowonjo, focused on educating children on the dangers of drug abuse, promoting healthy habits and strengthening communication between children and their parents or guardians.
Speaking at the event, the Capoon of Hawkins Deck, Mr Nkem Ekwem, said early education and open conversations were critical to preventing children from falling into drug abuse.
He encouraged the participants to freely ask questions and seek clarification on issues relating to drugs and substance abuse.
Also speaking, Lion Ojo Eborieme of the Akowonjo Golden Lions Club described drugs as a “dream killer,” urging children to resist negative influences and approach their parents whenever they faced pressure or confusing situations.
The NDLEA facilitator, Mr Samuel Ayenigbara, a Chief Supritendent of Narcotics, explained the mandate of the agency and its efforts to combat drug abuse across the country.
He distinguished between drugs legitimately prescribed by medical professionals and substances that are abused, stressing that children must understand the consequences of experimenting with narcotics.
In an interactive session, Samuel Ayenigbara, asked the children about their future ambitions and warned that drug abuse could derail their aspirations.
“Anyone who wants to destroy your future is not your friend,” he told the children, urging them to reject offers to keep, conceal or experiment with suspicious substances.
He advised them to report suspicious activities to their parents and other trusted adults, stressing the importance of open communication within families.
The NDLEA official also charged parents to be conscious of their conduct around children, noting that parental behaviour could significantly influence children’s choices.
He urged parents to remain approachable, monitor behavioural changes in their children and take an interest in the company they keep.
The programme ended with a question-and-answer session and goodwill messages, with participants calling for sustained community-based initiatives to shield children from drug abuse.
In his closing remarks, the Public Relations Officer of Hawkins Deck, Mr Ayodele Munis, commended the Akowonjo Golden Lions Club for the partnership and the NDLEA for supporting the campaign.
He said sustained collaboration among community groups, parents and law enforcement agencies was necessary to protect children from the growing threat of drug abuse.
