In a decisive move to curb the growing menace of drug abuse among Nigerian students, the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has proposed the introduction of an Annual Drug Abuse and Prevention Awareness Programme in all tertiary institutions across the country. This proposal was a key outcome of the recently concluded National Summit on Drug Abuse, held at the University of Abuja.
The summit, which attracted a broad spectrum of stakeholders including student leaders, health professionals, and law enforcement agencies, was convened by Comrade Oladimeji Uthman, who also serves as the NANS National President.
Comrade Uthman lauded the success of the summit, stressing the urgent need for a coordinated and sustained effort to combat the growing problem of drug abuse on Nigerian campuses. He highlighted that drug abuse not only jeopardizes the health and well-being of students but also poses a significant threat to their academic success and future prospects.
Among the resolutions passed at the summit, NANS emphasized the importance of establishing campus-based counseling centers dedicated to helping students cope with drug-related challenges.
These centers, according to NANS, would provide a safe space for students to seek help, receive counseling, and access information on the dangers of drug abuse. Furthermore, NANS called for the integration of drug education into the academic curricula, ensuring that students are educated on the risks of drug use as part of their academic journey.
In addition, the association recommended stronger collaboration between campus authorities and law enforcement agencies to ensure the enforcement of drug laws and the maintenance of a drug-free environment.
This partnership would be instrumental in preventing the sale and distribution of illegal substances on campuses, thereby safeguarding the lives and futures of students.
The proposed Annual Drug Abuse and Prevention Awareness Programme is of critical importance to students. It is designed to raise awareness about the dangers of drug use, educate students on how to resist peer pressure, and provide them with the tools they need to make informed decisions.
By bringing this issue to the forefront of campus life, the programme aims to reduce the incidence of drug abuse and its associated consequences, such as poor academic performance, health problems, and criminal behavior.
Furthermore, the establishment of campus-based counseling centers would ensure that students struggling with drug-related issues have access to the necessary support services. This initiative is expected to contribute significantly to the overall well-being of students, promoting a healthier and more conducive learning environment.
The proposals put forward by NANS represent a proactive approach to addressing the pervasive issue of drug abuse in Nigerian tertiary institutions. If implemented, these initiatives could play a vital role in creating a safer and more supportive educational environment, ultimately helping students to achieve their full potential. The success of these measures will, however, depend on the commitment of all stakeholders, including government agencies, educational institutions, and the students themselves.
