{"id":127774,"date":"2026-06-20T16:37:51","date_gmt":"2026-06-20T15:37:51","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/pointblanknews.com\/pbn\/?p=127774"},"modified":"2026-06-21T16:42:58","modified_gmt":"2026-06-21T15:42:58","slug":"un-anti-drug-day-seydi-joins-ndlea-mtn-foundation-advocacy-walk-calls-for-stronger-youth-action-against-substance-abuse","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/pointblanknews.com\/pbn\/news\/un-anti-drug-day-seydi-joins-ndlea-mtn-foundation-advocacy-walk-calls-for-stronger-youth-action-against-substance-abuse\/","title":{"rendered":"UN Anti-Drug Day: SEYDI Joins NDLEA, MTN Foundation Advocacy Walk, Calls for Stronger Youth Action Against Substance Abuse"},"content":{"rendered":"
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By Lizzy Chirkpi<\/strong><\/div>\n
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The Director-General of the Spotlite Education and Youth Development Initiative (SEYDI), Tony Anyanwu, on Saturday joined government agencies, development partners, students, and civil society organisations in an advocacy walk against drug abuse in Abuja, urging greater youth participation in the fight against substance abuse.<\/p>\n

The awareness walk, organised by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in collaboration with the MTN Foundation and the African University of Science and Technology (AUST), Galadimawa, was held to commemorate the 2026 United Nations International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Drug Trafficking.<\/p>\n

The event attracted representatives of the United Nations, NDLEA, MTN Foundation, civil society organisations, youth groups, students, and volunteers united in promoting a drug-free society and raising awareness about the dangers of substance abuse.<\/p>\n

Speaking on the sidelines of the event, Anyanwu described the campaign as a timely intervention aimed at safeguarding the future of young Nigerians.<\/p>\n

“The fight against drug abuse is a collective responsibility. At SEYDI, we believe that young people are not merely beneficiaries of development but drivers of change. Through advocacy, education, and community engagement, we can equip them with the knowledge and support they need to make informed choices,” Anyanwu said.<\/p><\/blockquote>\n

He warned that the growing prevalence of drug and substance abuse among young people poses serious threats to education, public health, security, and national development, stressing that prevention remains the most effective strategy.<\/p>\n

According to him, many youths become vulnerable to substance abuse through peer pressure, misinformation, and unhealthy coping mechanisms, making sustained awareness campaigns and mentorship programmes essential.<\/p>\n

Anyanwu highlighted SEYDI’s Drug Abuse Awareness Campus Tour (DAACT) as one of the organisation’s flagship initiatives focused on educating students, promoting prevention, and encouraging healthy lifestyles.<\/p>\n

“Our Drug Abuse Awareness Campus Tour serves as a platform for education, dialogue, mentorship, and action. We are committed to raising a generation of Drug Abuse Awareness Ambassadors who will champion prevention efforts across campuses and communities,” he said.<\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Participants marched through designated routes carrying placards and messages promoting a drug-free society while calling for stronger collaboration among stakeholders to tackle substance abuse.<\/p>\n

Describing the walk as more than a symbolic exercise, Anyanwu said it represented a broader movement to strengthen communities through youth engagement and sustained advocacy.<\/p>\n

“This walk represents a movement to build responsible communities through youth action and sustained advocacy. Every stakeholder has a role to play in safeguarding our young people from the devastating effects of drug abuse,” he added.<\/p><\/blockquote>\n

He reaffirmed SEYDI’s commitment to partnering with educational institutions, government agencies, development organisations, health professionals, and civil society groups to strengthen drug prevention campaigns across Nigeria.<\/p>\n

Also speaking at the event, Manager, Learning and Development at MTN Nigeria, Nkechi Oniah, said the initiative was designed to increase awareness among young people, particularly those between the ages of 10 and 25.<\/p>\n

“We have put together an advocacy walk. Basically, this is about creating awareness on the ills of substance abuse. So, we are linking up with the age bracket of 10 to 25 years,” she said.<\/p><\/blockquote>\n

Anyanwu further noted that beyond awareness campaigns, SEYDI provides platforms for youth leadership development, mentorship, advocacy, and referral services for individuals requiring professional support and rehabilitation.<\/p>\n

He said the participation of the United Nations, NDLEA, MTN Foundation, AUST, and other stakeholders underscored the importance of a multi-sectoral approach to addressing substance abuse and building safer communities.<\/p>\n

As the event concluded, participants renewed their commitment to promoting a culture of prevention and standing united against drug abuse.<\/p>\n

According to Anyanwu:<\/p>\n

“The fight against drug abuse requires the collective efforts of families, schools, communities, government institutions, and young people themselves. Every step we take today is an investment in a healthier, safer, and more productive society.”<\/p><\/blockquote>\n

The event ended with a shared message echoed by participants:<\/p>\n

“Every Step Counts. Every Voice Matters. Together, We Say No to Drug Abuse.”<\/strong><\/p>\n

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