International Day Against Drug Abuse: Tin Can COWA Chapter Advocates Prevention, Rehabilitation ,Youth Development
The Chairperson of the Customs Officers’ Wives Association (COWA), Tin Can Island Port Command Chapter, Mrs. Ifeoluwa Anani, has called for intensified efforts in drug awareness, rehabilitation and youth empowerment as part of measures to tackle the growing challenge of substance abuse in Nigeria.
Speaking during the commemoration of the 2026 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking at Bola Ige Millennium Secondary School, Ajegunle, Lagos, Anani stressed the need for communities, institutions and stakeholders to address the root causes of drug abuse in order to build a safer and more secure society.
The event, which was held under the theme, “World Drug Problem: Persisting Issues, New Challenges, Innovative Response,” brought together students, teachers and community stakeholders to raise awareness about the dangers of illicit drug use.
According to Anani, the global drug problem continues to pose serious threats to individuals, families, communities and nations, making it imperative for all sectors of society to play active roles in prevention and education.
She noted that many of the security challenges confronting Nigeria have been linked to the abuse of illicit drugs, warning that substance abuse not only destroys the lives and future prospects of young people but also fuels crime, violence and social instability.
The COWA chairperson emphasised that addressing the menace requires a collective approach that goes beyond enforcement measures.
“We must strengthen our efforts in drug awareness, prevention, rehabilitation and youth empowerment by addressing the root causes of drug abuse. Through collective action, we can help build a safer, healthier and more secure society for everyone,” she said.
Anani also delivered a strong message to students, describing them as the leaders of tomorrow and one of the nation’s greatest assets.She urged them to make responsible decisions and resist peer pressure, noting that the choices they make today would determine the direction of their future.
While warning against the misconception that illicit drugs offer pleasure, escape or social acceptance, she said the reality is that drug abuse damages lives, destroys relationships, affects academic performance and can lead to addiction, crime and the loss of promising opportunities.
She further stated that COWA remains committed to family welfare, youth development and community service, adding that the association considers it a priority to equip young people with the knowledge and confidence needed to make positive life choices.
The Principal of Bola Ige Millennium Secondary School, Mr. Omoniyi Adekeye, urged students to become ambassadors against drug abuse and help spread awareness among their peers and communities.He said the sensitisation programme has equipped students with the knowledge needed to resist peer pressure and say no to drugs.
He encouraged students to speak up whenever they encounter drug-related activities, stressing that reporting such incidents would help protect them from the dangers associated with substance abuse.
The principal also commended the Customs Officers’ Wives Association (COWA) and the programme facilitators for investing in the moral development and safety of students through the awareness campaign.
Adekeye disclosed that the school would reinforce anti-drug messages through its guidance and counselling units, anti-drug clubs and parental engagement programmes, while urging students to share the lessons learnt with their friends and families.
Dr. Chidinma Obialo, Superintendent of Customs, warned the students against substance abuse, describing it as a major public health and social challenge that contributes to addiction, poor academic performance, crime and various health complications.She said substance abuse extends beyond illicit drugs to include alcohol, nicotine and the misuse of prescription medications.
She identified peer pressure, ignorance, family influence and environmental factors as some of the major causes of substance abuse among youths, urging students to resist negative influences and make informed decisions.
The customs officer stressed that drug abuse could lead to addiction, mental health disorders, financial difficulties and conflict with the law, while encouraging affected individuals to seek professional help and rehabilitation.
A mental health counsellor, Mrs. Funke Odunnaike, also urged students to resist peer pressure and avoid substance abuse, warning that drug use can negatively affect brain development, decision-making and future aspirations.
Odunnaike said many young people are pressured by peers to experiment with drugs, but must have the courage to say no.She noted that while drugs may provide temporary feelings of excitement, they often lead to long-term health challenges, including kidney and liver diseases, mental health disorders and poor life outcomes.
The counsellor encouraged students to focus on their dreams and ambitions, stressing that substance abuse remains one of the greatest obstacles to achieving success and fulfilling their potential.
Representing the National President of the COWA, Mrs. Kikelomo Adeniyi, the Zone A Chairperson, Mrs. Amina Aliyu Babandede, urged young people to shun drug abuse and make choices that support their health, education and future aspirations. She encouraged them to associate with positive influences, focus on their talents and seek help when needed, stressing that saying no to drugs is a step toward achieving their dreams and securing a brighter future.
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