Delta State Government has urged secondary school students in the state to shun illicit drugs, resist peer pressure and make choices that will protect their education, health and future.
The call was made as the state government, in collaboration with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), took its Drug-Free Delta Campaign to schools in Ogwashi-Uku and Asaba.
The sensitisation programme, organised by the Delta State Bureau for Orientation and Communications, formed part of the second phase of the campaign, which is targeting select secondary and tertiary institutions across the three senatorial districts.
The campaign team, led by the bureau’s Director-General, Dr. Fred Latimore Oghenesivbe, visited Comprehensive College, Ogwashi-Uku, Okpanam High School and West End Mixed Secondary School, Asaba.
During interactive sessions, the students were educated on the dangers of substance abuse, the influence of peer pressure and the need to make responsible decisions.
Oghenesivbe urged the students not to allow experimentation or peer influence to derail their aspirations, stressing that choices made at a young age could have lasting consequences for their education and future careers.
He encouraged them to remain focused on their studies and aspire to positions of responsibility.
He cited accomplished Nigerians as examples of what could be achieved through discipline, commitment and education.
The programme also featured an anti-drug drama performed by students, portraying the effects of substance abuse on individuals, families and society.
Some participants received cash rewards for their performances.
The NDLEA Deputy State Commander, Mr. Silas Omobhude, educated the students on commonly abused substances and their associated dangers.
Omobhude warned the students against accepting food, drinks or other substances from strangers at social gatherings.
He cautioned that illicit substances could sometimes be introduced into refreshments.
He also urged them to remain vigilant against peer pressure and avoid environments that could expose them to drug use.
The school authorities commended the state government and the NDLEA for taking the campaign directly to students.
They said the interactive approach enabled the young people to receive professional guidance and ask questions about issues affecting them.
The exercise ended with the students joining the campaign team in an anti-drug chant promoting healthy living, education and responsible choices.