As part of activities to commemorate International Youth Day 2025, the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Itire-Ikate Branch, in collaboration with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), organized a sensitization programme on drug abuse aimed at enlightening young people on the dangers and long-term consequences of substance misuse.

Themed “The Evidence is Clear, Invest in Prevention,” the event focused on encouraging proactive measures against drug use and fostering a healthier, more responsible youth population, the session also featured free check-up for the youths.

In his opening remarks, Comrade (Amb.) Oshodi John Ayodele, Coordinator of NYCN Itire-Ikate Local Branch, stressed the critical importance of addressing drug abuse at the grassroots level.

“We must take responsibility for our generation,” he said. “The time to act is now. Sensitizing our youths on the harmful effects of drug misuse is essential for building a mentally stable and productive society.”



He further urged young people to completely desist from the use of illegal substances as well as unprescribed drugs, warning that many youths unknowingly expose themselves to addiction and mental health breakdowns by misusing medications not meant for them.

“Taking unprescribed drugs is just as dangerous as using illegal substances,” he added. “It puts your health, sanity, and future at risk.”

The Coordinator appreciated the Executive Chairman of Itire-Ikate LCDA, Hon. Femi Odunayo Daniel, for his consistent support to the youth constituency.



Representing the NDLEA, Mrs. Uloma Nwosu expanded on the theme, explaining the growing variety of substances currently abused by young people—from opioids and synthetic drugs to over-the-counter medications. She linked these habits to serious consequences such as memory loss, anxiety, depression, aggression, HIV, and other life-threatening conditions.

“Drug abuse has evolved, and it’s affecting families and communities,” she noted. “Parents must pay attention to sudden changes in their children’s behaviour, social circles, and daily routines.”



She also called on educational institutions, religious groups, and civil society to invest in early intervention, awareness campaigns, and youth-focused support systems to prevent addiction before it starts.

The sensitization featured interactive sessions, personal testimonies, and the distribution of educational materials to equip attendees with practical knowledge on prevention, early warning signs, and support systems.

In closing, the NYCN Itire-Ikate Branch reaffirmed its commitment to promoting youth development and public health, and urged more collaboration between government, civil society, and private organizations to curb the rising tide of drug misuse among Nigerian youths.

Dignitaries and stakeholders, including representatives from the Neighbourhood Safety Corps, the Nigeria Police Force, health educators, the Civil Defence Corps, and the Anti-Drug Intelligence Agency, were in attendance.