Lagos, June 22, 2025 – The First Lady of Lagos State, Dr. (Mrs) Claudiana Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, has reiterated the call for collective action in the fight against drug abuse, as she led an advocacy walk in collaboration with the MTN Foundation at the University of Lagos, Akoka, Bariga.
The awareness walk, which drew students, government officials, civil society organisations, and members of the public, was aimed at deepening public consciousness about the dangers of drug abuse and encouraging a united front in tackling the growing menace across communities in Lagos.
Dr. Sanwo-Olu emphasised that the campaign against drug abuse must go beyond government policies and become a sustained grassroots movement driven by education, support, and active community involvement.
“This fight requires all hands on deck. Drug abuse not only destroys individuals but weakens the very fabric of our society. We must raise our voices, spread awareness, and protect our youth from falling into this dangerous trap,” the First Lady stated.
She commended the MTN Foundation for partnering with the state in championing impactful initiatives and called on more private and public stakeholders to join in building a drug-free Lagos. The walk featured interactive sessions, sensitisation materials, and engagement with students, reinforcing the message of responsibility, support, and resilience.
The event forms part of broader efforts by the Lagos State Government to tackle substance abuse through education, policy, healthcare interventions, and community-based strategies, particularly targeting vulnerable groups and youth populations.
Participants echoed the need for consistent engagement and reinforced the shared responsibility of families, schools, religious bodies, and institutions in preventing and addressing drug abuse across the state.
