The wife of the Governor of Anambra State, Dr. Nonye Soludo, on Wednesday, June 26th, 2025, joined the global observance of the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking with a passionate call for urgent, collaborative efforts to combat the growing menace.
This year’s theme, “Breaking the Chains: Prevention, Treatment, and Recovery for All,” resonated strongly in her message to the public.
Dr. Soludo described drug abuse as a deeply complex issue that continues to undermine the social fabric of communities across Nigeria and beyond.
“Drug abuse is one complex problem that has continued to threaten the social purpose of our society,” she said. “It’s one horrible nightmare that has caught us dangerously off guard as a people.”
She warned of the alarming link between drug use and organized crime, noting that societies where drug abuse flourishes often experience a parallel rise in criminal activity and moral decay.
She emphasized the urgent need for strategic intervention, especially in environments where youth and school children are increasingly exposed.
“The proliferation of drugs most sadly in our classrooms and in the hands of school children is one war that we must continue to approach with renewed strategies and caution,” she stated.
“Drug abuse is ruining the future of our children; our young generation whose future we’re fighting to safeguard. The stats are scary.”
Dr. Soludo highlighted the role of her non-governmental organization, Healthy Living with Nonye Soludo Initiative, in tackling the crisis through a mix of education, healthcare, and strategic collaboration.
The NGO, she said, remains committed to both prevention and recovery efforts, especially among vulnerable groups like school-age children.
She acknowledged that while her organization has made progress, lasting success in the fight against drug abuse will require the input of all stakeholders.
“We’ll continue to do more. But we can’t do it alone,” she noted. “Whether you’re a parent, caregiver, or leader of any sort, this responsibility falls within your work scope.”
In concluding her remarks, Dr. Soludo urged Nigerians to unite against the tide of drug abuse, insisting that the nation must act fast to protect its youth and future.
“Drugs are stealing largely from us,” she warned. “Let’s break the chains together.”
The event was widely followed online with hashtags such as #WorldDrugDay, #EndDrugAbuse, #StopDrugTrafficking, and #HealthyLivingWithNonyeSoludo.