Godswill Obot Akpabio, the President of the Nigerian Senate, has stressed the necessity of parental involvement in combating drug abuse and trafficking among children. He asserted that for any meaningful progress to be made against drug issues in Nigeria, parents must play an active role, as they are essential in fighting the increasing drug problem.
Akpabio, represented by the Deputy Leader of the Senate, Senator Lola Yisa Ashiru, made this call during a one-day awareness program organized by a joint Committee of the Senate and House of Representatives on Drugs and Narcotics in Abuja on Thursday.
He urged parents to rise to the occasion and protect their children’s futures. The program, held in partnership with the National Association of Nigerian Drugs Monitoring (NANDRUM), attracted schoolchildren, stakeholders, and civil society organizations.
During the event, themed “Parents’ Inclusion in the Fight Against Drug Abuse and Reckless Behaviours,” Akpabio emphasized the critical role of parents. He stated that addressing drug abuse effectively starts at home, which would ultimately benefit society.
“Involving parents in the fight against drug abuse brings the battle to the grassroots level, tackling the issue before it escalates into addiction or trafficking on the streets,” he explained.
He pointed out that the best legacy parents can leave for their children is proper guidance towards a successful future, warning that indifference to signs of drug abuse can lead to devastating consequences.
Akpabio urged all parents to embrace this responsibility with determination, noting that the greatest gift they can offer their children is not wealth, but values such as integrity, courage, and a spirit of adventure. He encouraged parents to equip their children with the necessary tools to navigate life without succumbing to drug-related dangers.