The campaign against drug abuse and illicit substance use received a major boost on Thursday as the First Lady of Lagos State, Dr. (Mrs.) Claudiana Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, led a high-impact advocacy drive at the Lagos State University (LASU), Ojo campus, to commemorate the 2025 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.

Organised by the Office of the First Lady, the sensitisation campaign brought together key stakeholders including the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), the LASU War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) team, Lagos State Ministries of Health and Youth & Social Development, as well as other advocacy groups.

Accompanied by the wife of the Deputy Governor, Mrs. Oluremi Hamzat, and LASU Vice Chancellor, Prof. Ibiyemi Olatunji-Bello, the First Lady led an awareness walk from the university’s main gate to the Buba Marwa Auditorium, symbolising a united front in the war against drug abuse on campuses and in communities.

In her keynote address, Dr. Sanwo-Olu reaffirmed her commitment to combating substance abuse, especially among youths in higher institutions. She encouraged students to join the LASU WADA Group and serve as peer advocates in spreading anti-drug messages.

“To the students of LASU, I invite you to join the LASU WADA Group. Help us spread this message, protect your peers, and become the voice that inspires a shift in mindset,” she said.

She also urged campus media platforms, including LASU Radio, to amplify anti-drug messages and extend awareness campaigns beyond university events.

“Under the leadership of Mr. Governor, Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, we remain committed to this fight through the Inter-Ministerial Drug Abuse Control Committee and relevant MDAs,” the First Lady added.

Mrs. Oluremi Hamzat, wife of the Deputy Governor, described drug abuse as a “global menace” requiring urgent, holistic responses. She emphasised early intervention, mental health support, and an end to stigmatisation of those battling addiction.

“Addiction is often a symptom of deeper mental health issues that go undiagnosed for too long. We must stop stigmatising and start supporting,” she said.

Chairman of the Lagos State House of Assembly Committee on Youth and Social Development, Hon. Abiodun Orekoya, also addressed the audience, assuring that the Assembly remains committed to enacting policies that will strengthen the fight against drug abuse in the state.

Vice Chancellor of LASU, Prof. Olatunji-Bello, expressed appreciation to the First Lady for selecting LASU as host for the campaign, describing it as an honour and a testament to the institution’s commitment to student welfare.

“At LASU, we are deeply committed to not only academic excellence but also the holistic well-being of our students. Events like this reinforce our resolve to create a safe, supportive, and drug-free environment,” she said.

Commander of NDLEA in Lagos State, Commander Abubakar Lima Wali, echoed the collective responsibility in curbing drug abuse, urging collaboration in grassroots advocacy, rehabilitation support, and preventive education.

“The war against drug abuse is everyone’s fight. With unity and informed choices, we can win this battle,” he stated.

Mrs. Olubukonla Nwonah, Chairperson of the WADA Committee, praised the First Lady’s leadership and acknowledged the contributions of LASU management, corporate sponsors, and volunteers for making the campaign a success.

LAGOS EYE NEWS reports that the First Lady unveiled a strategic anti-drug signpost on the LASU campus and commissioned a symbolic wall mural at the Students Arcade to reinforce the campaign’s message.