…As Day 4 Campaign Train Anchor at Owa Model Secondary School, Boji-Boji Owa, Dein Palace Secondary School, Agbor, and Obiaruku Grammar School, Obiaruku.
Students in Delta State, and across Nigeria, have been strongly advised to steer clear of illicit drugs and substance abuse, as traces of drugs can remain detectable in the human bloodstream for up to 90 days after exposure.
This warning was issued by the Assistant State Commander of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Delta Command, Mr. Silas Osagie, during an awareness session with students of Owa Model Secondary School, Boji-Boji Owa, Dein Palace Secondary School, Agbor, and Obiaruku Grammar School, Obiaruku. The event was part of the statewide “Drug-Free Delta” campaign, an initiative of the Delta State Orientation and Communications Bureau in collaboration with the NDLEA.
Osagie emphasized the importance of staying focused on academics, avoiding negative influences, and reporting any cases of drug abuse to their school authorities. He also encouraged students to actively participate in War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) Clubs established in their schools to promote a drug-free environment.
Highlighting the alarming national statistics on youth drug abuse, Osagie explained that the Delta State Government, through the State Orientation and Communications Bureau (SOCB), partnered with the NDLEA to take the “Drug-Free Delta” awareness campaign directly to students, ensuring they understand the dangers of substance abuse and the importance of making the right choices for their future.
Director-General of the Delta State Orientation and Communications Bureau, SOCB, Dr. Fred Latimore Oghenesivbe, reiterated Governor Oborevwori’s commitment to achieving a “Drug Free Delta” as a cornerstone of his agenda for meaningful development and enhanced security encapsulated in his MORE Agenda under full scale implementation across the state.
He stressed that remaining drug-free was crucial for the students to fully benefit from the good governance strides of governor Sheriff Oborevwori in the state, warning that drug abuse could and use of Illicit drugs could prematurely kill their lofty dreams and aspirations.
“His Excellency, Governor Dr. Elder Sheriff Oborevwori, deeply cares for your well-being. He has entrusted the Delta State Orientation and Communications Bureau, to deliver this message of hope and empowerment: choose a drug-free path and unlock your full potential.”
The NDLEA Officer, Mr Silas Osagie collaborated the good intensions of the state government in the ongoing “Drug Free Delta Campaign” by engaging the students in a discussion about the differences between licit and illicit drugs, shared a cautionary tale, highlighting the dangers of accepting unknown substances from friends and relatives.
“A fifteen-year-old girl lost her virginity after unknowingly consuming Rohypnol. The drug clouded her judgment, rendering her vulnerable to exploitation.”
Me Osagie further elaborated on the far-reaching consequences of drug abuse, explaining that traces of drugs can remain detectable in an individual’s bloodstream for up to 90 days after exposure.
“This is why abstaining from drugs, except those prescribed by a medical professional, is essential,” he stressed.
A moving moment occurred when a student voluntarily disclosed her involvement in selling drugs, revealing the influence of her stepmother and a friend. This courageous act underscored the campaign’s impact, prompting a path for intervention and support.
Mr. Festus Ngozi Nweke, the Principal of Owa Model Secondary School, expressed his gratitude to the State Government and Governor Oborevwori for prioritizing the well-being of Delta’s youth.
He pledged to reinforce the “Drug Free Delta” message and strengthen the school’s “War Against Drug Abuse” (WADA) club, empowering students to become proactive advocates for a drug-free society.
The Principals of Dein Palace Secondary School and Obiaruku Grammar School, Messrs. Peter Obuseh and Enemuwe Azubuike, respectively, echoed these sentiments, reaffirming their commitment to fostering a drug-free learning environment.
Looking ahead, the “Drug Free Delta” campaign team will continue their sensitization activities on Monday, February 10, 2025,.
