The Network Against Corruption and Trafficking (NACAT) on Monday intensified its campaign against substance abuse among young people with a sensitisation programme held at Benford International School, Abuja, where students were educated on the dangers of drug abuse and the importance of making responsible life choices.

The awareness programme, organised as part of activities to promote a drug-free society, brought together students, teachers, and school administrators for an interactive session focused on the growing threat of substance abuse among adolescents and the role of peer influence in driving the trend.

Speaking during the event, NACAT’s Operations Manager, Stanley Ugagbe, described substance abuse as one of the most serious threats confronting young people today, warning that the menace has continued to destroy lives, derail academic ambitions, and rob many youths of their futures.

Addressing the students, Ugagbe stressed that drug abuse extends beyond the use of illicit substances such as cocaine and heroin, noting that the misuse of prescription medications, including cough syrups containing codeine and other controlled substances, also falls within the category of drug abuse.

He explained that many young people unknowingly begin a dangerous journey through seemingly harmless experimentation. Using practical examples, he illustrated how a student struggling with examination pressure could become dependent on stimulants introduced by friends under the guise of improving concentration and academic performance.

The NACAT official warned that the consequences of substance abuse are far-reaching, affecting physical health, mental stability, academic performance, behaviour, and future opportunities. According to him, drug abuse can lead to brain damage, mental health disorders, declining grades, indiscipline, criminal activities, and even expulsion from school.

“Drugs do not just destroy bodies; they distort destinies,” he told the students, urging them to remain vigilant against influences that could compromise their dreams and aspirations.

Ugagbe also highlighted peer pressure as one of the leading factors driving substance abuse among young people. He noted that many teenagers are introduced to drugs not through personal curiosity but through the desire to gain acceptance from friends or fit into social groups.

He explained that peer pressure often manifests subtly through statements such as “Everybody is doing it” or “Just try it once,” adding that many youths make regrettable decisions because they fear rejection. He reminded the students that popularity should never come at the expense of their future.

To help students navigate such situations, Ugagbe shared practical strategies for resisting peer pressure, including learning to say “No” confidently, avoiding unhealthy environments, choosing friends wisely, developing exit strategies when confronted with risky situations, and seeking guidance from trusted adults such as parents, teachers, and counsellors.

He further encouraged the students to place a high value on their future ambitions, reminding them that every young person possesses enormous potential that could be destroyed by poor choices. He urged them to remain disciplined, focused, and committed to living drug-free lives.

Earlier in the programme, NACAT’s Programme Manager, Joy Tomo, captivated the audience with real-life accounts of individuals whose lives were negatively impacted by substance abuse. Her presentation highlighted the devastating personal, social, and economic consequences suffered by victims and their families, further reinforcing the dangers associated with drug use.

In his vote of thanks, the Principal of Benford International School, Mr. Mika Nuhu, commended NACAT for bringing the sensitisation programme to the school. He described the initiative as timely and impactful, noting that the lessons shared would help students make informed decisions and avoid behaviours capable of jeopardising their future.

The event concluded with a renewed commitment by students to remain drug-free and become ambassadors of positive values among their peers, as NACAT reiterated its determination to continue engaging schools and communities in the fight against substance abuse and other social vices.

•NACAT during a sensitisation programme held at Benford International School, Abuja

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