By Michael Ezenwata
The Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK) Chapter of the War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) has expressed concern over the increasing rate of drug and substance abuse, calling for stronger collaboration among governments, institutions, healthcare professionals and communities to address the growing menace.
The call was made during the university’s commemoration of the 2026 World Drug Day held in Awka under the theme, “World Drug Problems: Persisting Issues, New Challenges, Innovative Responses”, on July 24.
Declaring the event open on behalf of the Vice-Chancellor, Prof. Carol Arinze-Umobi Anyaehie, the Vice-Chancellor (Administration), Prof. Hilda Osisioma, urged all stakeholders to unite in tackling drug abuse, describing it as a serious challenge that threatens individuals, families and society.
Chairman of the occasion and National Chairman, Board of Fellows of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN), Pharm. Uchenna Uzoma Apakama, lamented the increasing cases of drug and substance abuse in Nigeria and globally. He called for greater government intervention, stressed that prevention remains the best solution, and cautioned against stigmatizing drug users, noting that pharmacists remain committed partners in the campaign against drug abuse.
Delivering the keynote lecture, the Head of the Department of Psychology, UNIZIK, Prof. Chidozie Nwafor, highlighted the devastating effects of drug abuse, including behavioural changes, hallucinations and other health complications. He noted that people aged 29 to 35 account for the highest number of drug addiction cases in Nigeria and warned that synthetic drugs have made detection more difficult.
Representing the Anambra State Commissioner of Police, ACP Theophilus Eze encouraged drug addicts to embrace rehabilitation, assuring them that recovery is possible through determination and proper support. Retired Permanent Secretary and PSN Fellow, Pharm. Emma Ude-Akpeh, urged WADA to extend its advocacy to adults whose actions negatively influence younger people.
Speaking on behalf of one of the event’s chief sponsors, Pst. Ikechukwu Ezeanyika, Mrs. Emilia Ezeanyika described drug addiction as a major obstacle to national development and appealed for greater student participation in future awareness programmes. High Chief Chukwujekwu Nwankwo also condemned drug abuse and urged addicts to abandon the habit.
In his vote of thanks, WADA UNIZIK President, Dr. Alexander Orji, appreciated the sponsors and reaffirmed the association’s commitment to working with the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria, the Police, DSS, NDLEA and faith-based organisations to strengthen the fight against drug and substance abuse.
Highlights of the event included the presentation of awards to sponsors, inauguration of WADA faculty student representatives, a Vice-Chancellor’s Trophy quiz competition involving over 1,000 students, cash and trophy awards for the top 10 contestants, and free HIV screening for participants.
Michael Ezenwata is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State
#Ministryofinformationandvaluareformation
#Ministryofeducation
#Anambraisrising
#Informationiskey
#Solutionishere
#Solutioncontinue
Last modified: July 25, 2026
