Following the ravaging effects of drug abuse among youths in Nigeria, the CEO of All Seasons Hotel, Evang. Mike Ikoku has flagged off a sensitization campaign to curb the menace.
Evang. Ikoku who spoke in Owerri on Monday during a meeting with the Student Union Government (SUG) executives of the Imo State University (IMSU) and Federal Polytechnic Nekede (FEDPONEK), said youths are no longer well sensitized on both the long and short term dangers of the substances they consume.
He said that the economic situation in the country is also contributing to the situation, adding that the solution will come from both individuals and the government.
The Radio Boss CEO emphasized that the campaign is targeting youths who are yet to start substance abuse and others in vulnerable situations that could lead to substance abuse.
“I called you for us to form a team and it’s a community service not political, I’m not a politician, my interest is how we can make Imo good, so these are my idea and I trust you young people more than my age mates and I think it’s better we do this*
With Radio Boss FM expected to lead the campaign, Evang Ikoku said it would be the first of it’s kind in Imo State, having students and other young persons as the key targets.
He said that seeing young lives damaged by abuse of substances breaks his heart, calling on everyone to join hands to make the campaign a success.
Participants at the meeting called for the campaign to be taken to the grassroots, urging Evang Ikoku to ensure it is sustained.
They also highlighted the corresponding police brutality that comes with the issue at hand, adding that security agents will also play a great role in the campaign.
Another participant Miss Aiffy Okereke hailed the initiative calling on the vision bearer to consider having survivors at the forefront of the campaign.
She added that it is said to note that in most cases, security agents are aware of the dealers and their locations but do nothing, calling for an end to such practice.
Evang. Ikoku hailed the participants for their contributions and zeal to see that abuse of substance comes to an end in Imo State especially, urging them to remain optimistic, even when the task ahead seems enormous. He said that the task is achievable with every hand and deck.
