The Niger Delta Development Commission (NDDC) on Thursday led an anti-drug and substance abuse campaign across major streets in Benin City, warning youths to shun narcotics and embrace healthy living.
The two-day sensitisation drive, organised in partnership with SG Logistics Services Limited, kicked off with a public awareness walk.
The walk began at King’s Square at Ring Road and passed through Sapele Road, Ikpokpan, Boundary Road, Ihama Road, before terminating at Airport Road amidst a heavy downpour.
Hundreds of secondary school students, civil society groups, and community volunteers joined the walk, carrying placards and chanting “Say No to Drugs, Yes to Life.”
The sensitisation featured talks on dangers of narcotics, peer pressure, and practical tips on seeking help.
Students were urged to spread the anti-drug message to their schools and communities.
Former drug users also shared testimonies on the devastating effects of substance abuse and pledged to rebuild their lives.
Speaking with newsmen, Mrs Mercy Babawale, Director of NDDC in Edo, said the commission took the campaign to the streets to confront a growing menace threatening the future of Nigerian youths.
According to her, the initiative is part of NDDC’s broader plan to combat rising drug use across the Niger Delta by prioritising prevention and public education.
“We are out here to add our voices to the fight against drug abuse.
“Too many young people are wasting their future. Saying no to drugs means saying yes to life, and we want them to know that help is available,” she said.
