Advocacy is a powerful tool for promoting positive change in society. When individuals or groups advocate for a cause, they are working to raise awareness, influence policies, and ultimately drive meaningful progress.

The National Youth Council of Nigeria, (NYCN), Odi-Olowo/Ojuwoye Local Branch ably led by an ever inspiring youth leader & advocate, Engr. Adigun Olalekan Ibrahim, together with team, paid an advocacy visit to the Lagos State Command of NDLEA on Saturday 2nd February, 2024, ahead their imminent 4th Breakfast Session targeted at addressing the menace of substance abuse.

Breakfast Session is one out of many other great monthly advocacy drives of the local branch.
Since its inception, the session has addressed a number of critical issues affecting youth within the LCDA.

The imminent edition of the Breakfast Session is themed “Menace of Drug Abuse” which is a very key theme that would expose youth among other participants to evils inherent in drug abuse and also, serve as a tie-in
rehabilitating youth who are in one way or the other affected by substance abuse.

Addressing this theme requires a comprehensive approach that encompasses prevention, education, treatment, and support thus birthed the need for the advocacy visit.

The visiting team was amiably received by the Deputy Commander of the State Command, NDLEA, Mrs Ezieyinre Chinyere who after several minutes of interactive discussions, led them to the office of the generalissimo of the Command, Commander Abubakar Liman Wali (CN).

Engr. Adigun Ibrahim during his introductory presentations, extensively emphasized the purpose of the advocacy visit which according to him would significantly provide the branch necessary insights needed in achieving its set goals on her proposed drug abuse sensitizations/campaigns, among others.

The State Commander, Commander Abubakar Liman Wali (CN), expressed his delights in the coming of the team.

He said that the visiting team came at the right time when the NDLEA needed community collaborations especially with youth in local communities.

“This is one of the most happiest days of my life as I can see you all; readily eager to take your community to the next level, I’ll never forget this day”, he added.

Following hours of interactive discussions with the visiting team and the State Commander of the NDLEA together with his team, meaningful and sustainable conclusions were drawn for implementations.

The visit was rounded off with familiarizations and different photo sessions during which moment the state Commander was presented Advocacy Campaign souvenirs by the Coordinator of the youth branch, Engr. Adigun Ibrahim together with his team.

It’s important to recognize that addressing rampant drug abuse is a long-term endeavor that requires sustained commitment and resources.
By focusing on prevention, treatment, community engagement, and addressing underlying societal issues, it is possible to make meaningful progress in combating rampant drug abuse and supporting individuals and communities in need.