UNIMAID LAUNCHES DRUG-FREE CLUB TO COMBAT SUBSTANCE ABUSE

UNIMAID LAUNCHES DRUG-FREE CLUB TO COMBAT SUBSTANCE ABUSE 

The University of Maiduguri has strengthened its efforts in the fight against drug abuse by collaborating with Drug-Free World Africa and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) to launch an awareness campaign against substance abuse. This initiative highlights the need for collective action in addressing the growing issue of drug use among young people.

This was disclosed by the Vice Chancellor University of Maiduguri Professor Mohammed Laminu Mele during the launching of Unimaid Drug Free Club on Saturday the 22nd February, 2025 at the NUGA hall of the University. 

The Vice-Chancellor Professor Mohammed Laminu Mele reiterated the dangers of drug abuse and its impact on academic success and societal development. He encouraged students to take an active role in promoting a drug-free environment by abstaining from substance use and influencing their peers positively.

Professor Laminu stressed that addressing drug abuse requires a joint effort involving institutions, government agencies, civil society groups, and students. He reaffirmed the university’s dedication to working with Drug-Free World Africa and NDLEA to tackle the issue through education, awareness, and proactive interventions.This initiative he said, marks a significant milestone in promoting a drug-free culture within the university and the larger community, reinforcing the commitment to safeguarding students and empowering them to make informed life choices.

He urged students to become ambassadors of a drug-free lifestyles, stating, "Say no to drugs. Together, we can build a campus and a society where young people flourish without the influence of harmful substances." He also congratulated the newly inaugurated executives of the University of Maiduguri Drug-Free Club and urged them to uphold a drug-free culture on campus.

The Chief Medical Director of the University of Maiduguri Medical Centre, Professor Musa Abba Wakil, emphasized the severe consequences of drug abuse, including its link to crimes such as theft, armed robbery, and even murder. He advised young people to steer clear of peer groups that promote substance abuse, warning that it could lead to criminal activities.

In his remarks, NDLEA Commandant C.N. Iliyasu Mamman Mani commended the university's leadership for taking a proactive stance against drug abuse. He described substance abuse as a serious social menace that destroys lives, families and communities. 

As an enforcement agency he said, they have witnessed the devastating effects of drug addiction, ranging from academic failure to severe health complications and mental health disorders. He stressed that the NDLEA alone cannot fight drug abuse, calling for collaboration among educational institutions, parents religious leaders, and young people He also praised Drug-Free World Africa in Borno State for organizing awareness campaigns and outreach programs to curb substance abuse.

The highlight of the event was the official inauguration of the University of Maiduguri Drug-Free Club, followed by an award presentation to the Vice-Chancellor and other distinguished individuals for their contributions to the fight against drug abuse.