...Warns Against Rising Trend of Online Drug Sales, Shisha, 'Skoochies'

Elizade University, Ilara-Mokin, Ondo State, has intensified the campaign against drug abuse with a passionate call on Nigerian youths to shun illicit drugs and embrace responsible lifestyles capable of securing their future and national development.

The institution made the call during its commemoration of the 2026 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, under the global theme: "The World Drug Problem: Persisting Issues, New Challenges and Innovative Responses."

Declaring the programme open, the Registrar of the University, Mr. Omololu Adegbenro, reminded students that the primary purpose of university education is the pursuit of knowledge, character development and preparation for leadership. He warned that drug abuse remains one of the greatest threats to academic excellence and personal fulfilment, urging students to resist every form of negative influence capable of derailing their ambitions.

In a message to the occasion, the Vice-Chancellor, Professor Philip Oguntunde, through the Dean of Student Affairs, Professor Modupe Abolade,  described drug abuse as a growing social menace that continues to devastate individuals, families and communities. 

On her part, she welcomed participants to the awareness programme, stressing that every young person has a responsibility to reject drug abuse and become an advocate for healthy living.

Delivering the keynote lecture, the Deputy Commander, Drug Demand Reduction Unit of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Ondo State Command, Mrs. Jeyifous Yetunde, raised concerns over the evolving dimensions of drug abuse and trafficking, warning that criminal networks are increasingly exploiting digital platforms to market and distribute illicit substances to unsuspecting young people.

She disclosed that dangerous substances are now being ordered online, discreetly delivered and, in many cases, mixed into drinks and other consumables, thereby exposing more youths to addiction and other life-threatening consequences.

Calling on students to remain vigilant, she urged them to "Say No to Drug Abuse," while encouraging the responsible use of social media as a tool for education, innovation and positive engagement rather than the promotion of substance abuse or criminal activities.

Mrs. Yetunde also warned against the growing popularity of substances such as shisha, skoochies and other harmful psychoactive drugs, explaining that their consumption poses severe risks to physical health, mental wellbeing and academic performance.

Describing drug abuse and illicit trafficking as major public health and security challenges, the NDLEA official appealed to Nigerians to report suspicious drug-related activities instead of remaining silent or stigmatizing victims of addiction.

 According to her, timely intervention and community support can save lives and facilitate rehabilitation.

Also speaking, the University's Counsellor, Mrs. Fadekemi Atere, encouraged students facing emotional, psychological or social challenges to take advantage of the University's professional counselling services. She assured them that all consultations are handled with utmost confidentiality, creating a safe environment for students to seek help without fear of discrimination.

The event concluded with a renewed commitment by Elizade University to promoting a drug-free campus through sustained awareness, preventive education and strategic collaboration with relevant agencies. 

Students were urged to make informed choices, uphold the values of discipline and integrity, and become ambassadors of a healthier, safer and drug-free society.