By Ebenezer Mabinuola
The First Lady of Lagos State, Dr. Claudiana Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, led a powerful anti-drug abuse campaign at Lagos State University (LASU), Ojo Campus, to mark the 2025 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.
The awareness event, organised by the Office of the First Lady, brought together key stakeholders including the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), LASU’s War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) unit, the Ministries of Health and Youth & Social Development, and other advocacy groups.
Dr. Sanwo-Olu, alongside Mrs. Oluremi Hamzat (wife of the Deputy Governor) and LASU Vice Chancellor Prof. Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, led an awareness walk from the university gate to Buba Marwa Auditorium, symbolizing unity in the fight against drug abuse.
Addressing students, Dr. Sanwo-Olu urged them to join the LASU WADA Group and use platforms like LASU Radio for peer-led advocacy.
“Protect yourselves and each other. Be the voice against drug abuse,” she said.
Mrs. Hamzat stressed the need for early intervention and greater mental health support. Hon. Abiodun Orekoya of the Lagos State House of Assembly reaffirmed legislative backing for anti-drug policies, while NDLEA Commander Abubakar Wali called for stronger grassroots outreach and education.
The campaign featured the unveiling of a symbolic anti-drug signpost and a mural at the Student Arcade. LASU honoured Dr. Sanwo-Olu with a recognition plaque, and students and staff were decorated as WADA Ambassadors.
Themed “The Evidence is Clear, Invest in Prevention,” the event reinforced Lagos State’s commitment to youth-focused, preventive action against drug abuse.
