The Nnamdi Azikiwe University (UNIZIK) Chapter of the War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) has expressed concern over the increasing rate of drug and substance abuse
WADA during the university’s commemoration of the 2026 World Drug Day held in Awka, under the theme, “World Drug Problems: Persisting Issues, New Challenges, Innovative Responses”, called for stronger collaboration among governments, institutions, healthcare professionals and communities to address the growing menace.
Declaring the event open, the Vice-Chancellor (Administration), Prof. Hilda Osisioma, urged all stakeholders to unite in tackling drug abuse, describing it as a serious challenge that threatens individuals, families and society.
In his remarks, Chairman of the occasion, Pharmacist Uchenna Uzoma Apakama, lamented the increasing cases of drug and substance abuse in Nigeria and globally.
Apakama who is also the National Chairman, Board of Fellows of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN),
called for greater government intervention, stressed that prevention remains the best solution.
He cautioned against stigmatizing drug users, noting that pharmacists remain committed partners in the campaign against drug abuse.
Delivering the keynote lecture, the Head of the Department of Psychology, UNIZIK, Prof. Chidozie Nwafor, highlighted the devastating effects of drug abuse, including behavioural changes, hallucinations and other health complications. He noted that people aged 29 to 35 account for the highest number of drug addiction cases in Nigeria and warned that synthetic drugs have made detection more difficult.
Representing the Anambra State Commissioner of Police, ACP Theophilus Eze encouraged drug addicts to embrace rehabilitation, assuring them that recovery is possible through determination and proper support.
Retired Permanent Secretary and PSN Fellow, Pharm. Emma Ude-Akpeh, urged WADA to extend its advocacy to adults whose actions negatively influence younger people.
In their separate speeches, Pst. Ikechukwu Ezeanyika, Chief Chukwujekwu Nwankwo and Mrs. Emilia Ezeanyika described drug addiction as a major obstacle to national development and appealed for greater student participation in future awareness programmes. ….also condemned drug abuse and urged addicts to abandon the habit.
In his vote of thanks, WADA UNIZIK President, Dr. Alexander Orji, appreciated the sponsors and reaffirmed the association’s commitment to working with the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria, the Police, DSS, NDLEA and faith-based organisations to strengthen the fight against drug and substance abuse.
