Coalition rallies students against drug abuse in Yobe
By Ahmed Isah
The Students’ Wing of the Coalition of Northern Groups (CNG) on Tuesday rallied students in Yobe to shun drug abuse and promote ethical leadership.
The call came at a one-day public lecture on Tuesday in Damaturu with the theme, “Advancing Ethical Student Leadership and a Cohesive, Drug-Free Learning Environment.”
Speaking at the event, the National Coordinator of CNG, Mr Jamilu Charanchi, described drug abuse as a growing menace threatening the future of young people.
“Drug abuse has become an economy that has eaten deep into the very fabric of our society,” he said.
Charanchi said campuses must remain centres for academic excellence and character formation, not safe havens for substance abuse.
He warned that tolerating drugs in schools would produce leaders incapable of advancing national development.
The coordinator expressed concern over increasing cases of substance abuse among students and youths across the country.
According to him, some political actors exploit vulnerable youths by exposing them to drugs to advance selfish interests.
He urged students to reject such manipulation and focus on unity, discipline and patriotism.
Charanchi said northern Nigerian students were once known for strong values and dedication, which he urged them to revive.
In his remarks, the Yobe Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Mr Saleh Samanja, said the state government was strengthening measures to combat drug abuse.
Samanja disclosed that a bill seeking to establish a drug control agency had been drafted and transmitted to the Yobe State House of Assembly.
He said the proposed agency would tackle substance abuse and coordinate rehabilitation efforts in the state.
The commissioner added that the government currently operates a rehabilitation facility and plans to establish a more robust centre when the new agency becomes operational.
