By Ibironke Ariyo
The NGO Vanguard Against Drug Abuse (VGADA) has undermined the crucial role of community-based initiatives in stemming the rise in drug abuse and trafficking among youth.
Dr. Hope Omeiza, Executive Director and Founder of VGADA, made this statement on Monday in Abuja, on the occasion of the International Day Against Drug Dependence and Illicit Trafficking.
Omeiza reiterated that communities remain the most powerful force in the fight against drug abuse.
The existence of a significant gap in prevention can only be recognized when community structures such as families, schools, religious groups, and traditional institutions are actively involved.
The international commemoration, which took place on June 26, will be postponed this year: “The evidence is clear: investing in prevention.”
This reflects a growing global consensus on the effectiveness and sustainability of community prevention in combating drug use, especially among young people.
Early warning is not a temporary measure. It is an ongoing, community-led process that requires trust, access, and ongoing commitment.
Therefore, VGADA is working in partnership with local, educational, and community leaders to address the drug crisis from the ground up,” he explained.
Omeiza explained that VGADA’s support to the community includes empowering educators, establishing drug-free school clubs, organising public meetings, and providing mental health support to children in the country.
He welcomes the fact that while policing is essential, drug trafficking requires due attention.
Over the past year, thousands of young Nigerians have organised themselves through these initiatives.
We cannot wait for young people to listen to their voices. At this time, our sentiments are being expressed day after day. “The solution lies in early childhood education, mental health, and community policing,” he explained.
The NGO Director commended NDLEA’s extensive support for the activities of the Global Drug Dialogue and emphasised that civil society organisations (CSOs) bring the voices and experiences of Nigerians to the debate.
He appealed to stakeholders, including governments local authorities, health centers, security agencies and the media, to decentralize prevention efforts and promote continuity. The incident occurred at the community level.
He also called on companies and development partners to invest in prevention projects with direct contributions and measurable impact, especially in peripheral areas.
“The fight against drug use must be local. Because communities are responsible for prevention, the results are more sustainable and culturally relevant.”
“VGADA also encourages all levels to increase funding for substance abuse prevention programmes and to integrate drug education into formal and informal learning systems.”
“We also call on parents, teachers, religious leaders, traditional rulers and the private sector to work together to protect young people from the temptation of drugs.”
“Drug abuse does not discriminate.” It affects all segments of society: individuals and communities, educated and uneducated, urban and rural. “Our responsibility must be comprehensive and inclusive,” Omeiza explained.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reported that VGADA organised awareness-raising events, media appearances and interactive sessions with children in Abuja, Lagos and other northern states of Nigeria as part of this commemoration.
The International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking was established by the United Nations in 1987 to raise global awareness about the harmful effects of drug abuse.
It also aims to strengthen international cooperation for a drug-free world.
Drug Day: VGADA highlights community role in drug abuse prevention Action
