Isi-Uzo Local Government Area (LGA) of Enugu State, in collaboration with the Office of the First Lady of the state and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), has launched a comprehensive campaign to combat illicit drug consumption among youths, with a goal of making the area a drug-free zone.
This development comes as the Council also inaugurated the War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) Clubs in all secondary schools across the LGA.
Speaking during an event to mark the 2025 International Day of the Boy Child at the local government headquarters in Ikem, the wife of the Council Chairman, Mrs. Onyinye Obeagu, lamented the toll hard drugs have taken on many young lives, emphasizing the Council’s determination to combat the menace decisively.
Mrs. Obeagu stated that the Council would sustain its partnership with the NDLEA to ensure that boys in the LGA grow up healthy, resilient, and well-informed about the dangers of substance abuse. She further stressed the need for proper mentorship and guidance for every boy child.
“As many of you know, some boys fall into drugs because of depression and peer pressure as well as what they see around them in schools, streets and in their homes. But I say to them today, nothing is worth throwing away your life. Once you are caught in it, it is hard to break free. But the message is clear today: do not let drugs define you. Being a ‘big boy’ is not about what you smoke or drink. It is about who you are, your success in your endeavours, and how you treat others,” she advised.
Regretting that society often focuses more on celebrating girls, Mrs. Obeagu called for increased support for boys and encouraged them to speak up when facing abuse.
In her address, the wife of Enugu State Governor, Mrs. Nkechinyere Mbah, described the theme of the 2025 International Day of the Boy Child, “Building Self-Esteem in Boys: Stand Up, Be Heard, Be Seen,” as reflective of her vision for every child in the state.
Represented by her Senior Special Assistant on Special Duties, Mrs. Chidi Egeonu, Mrs. Mbah emphasized the importance of nurturing boys’ self-esteem and empowering them to discover their voices and feel valued.
“A boy, who believes in himself is a boy, who can overcome challenges, strive for excellence, and contribute positively to the society,” Mrs. Mbah stated.
She also praised Mrs. Obeagu and the Isi-Uzo Council for being pioneers in celebrating the Day of the Boy Child at the local level, and for collaborating with the NDLEA to launch the WADA Clubs aimed at curbing youth drug abuse.
In his remarks, Isi-Uzo Council Chairman, Barr. Obiora Obeagu, reaffirmed the Council’s commitment to working with the NDLEA to eliminate drug abuse.
“Youth empowerment and development can best be achieved with healthy youths. That is why we are taking the war against illicit drugs seriously,” he stated.
The NDLEA’s Deputy Commander (Drug and Rehabilitation) in Enugu, Mr. Ibezimako Owunwa, commended the Council for its proactive leadership and vowed that the agency would intensify its efforts to arrest drug dealers who entice young people into drug use.
He urged boys in the area to steer clear of hard drugs, warning that drug abuse could derail their ambitions.
The Traditional Ruler of Ikem Uno Autonomous Community, HRH Okey Ogbodo, pledged the cooperation of traditional leaders in sensitizing their communities about the dangers of drug abuse.
Highlights of the event included the formal inauguration of the WADA Clubs in secondary schools across Isi-Uzo and the presentation of gifts to outstanding boys and students.
