LASG Launches School Campaign, Warns Students Against Drug Abuse

By Bilkis Abdulraheem Lawal

The Lagos State Government has urged students across the state to shun drug abuse and remain focused on building a bright and fulfilling future.

The appeal was made during the official flag-off of the School Sensitisation Campaign Against Drug Abuse, held at Government Girls’ College, Agege.

Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Youth and Social Development, Pharm. (Mrs) Toyin Oke-Osanyintolu, said rising statistics on substance abuse, especially among young people, pose a serious threat to students’ wellbeing and future aspirations.

“As the Permanent Secretary, this School Advocacy Campaign Against Drug Abuse speaks directly to the heart of our vision: to create a safe learning environment where every student can thrive without the shadow of drugs,” she said. “Every young person carries a dream to be great and live a fulfilled life, but that dream can only survive when the mind is clear, the body is healthy, and the heart is strong. Unfortunately, one of the biggest enemies of those dreams is drug abuse.”

She advised students to stay focused on their academics, maintain discipline, and believe in their ability to achieve their goals despite challenges.

Also speaking, the Presiding Chaplain of the Chapel of Christ the Light, Rev. (Dr) Dele Ajayi, and the Tutor-General/Permanent Secretary, Dr Idowu Olufunke Oyetola, represented by Mrs Maria Olufunmilayo Ojo, urged students to avoid substance abuse, noting that their future success depends on making the right choices.

Resource persons, including Dr Mariam Ibrahim, Mrs Bolanle Idowu, and Aminat Yusuf, delivered sessions on “The Danger of Drug Abuse” and “Understanding the Legal Consequences of Drug Abuse.” They highlighted the long-term physical, psychological, and legal harms associated with drug misuse.

The school advocacy campaign is part of the Lagos State Kicks Against Drug Abuse (LASKADA) initiative under the Ministry of Youth and Social Development. The programme, led by Mr Lukmon Kotun, focuses on educating and empowering young people to say “No” to drugs and “Yes” to a healthier, productive life.