University Don Declares War Against Drug Abuse Among Teenagers

A University Don,Professor Florence Adeoti Yusuf yesterday took a stand against drug abuse and misuse among adolescents in the country.

Speaking during a campaign organised by the College of Education of Osun State University, Professor Yusuf who is also the Provost of the College of Education Uniosun, described drug abuse as the excessive, maladaptive and addictive use of a drug for purposes other than those for which it was intended.

She emphasised the concept of addiction, characterised by a compulsive need for drugs despite negative consequences.

She warned about the susceptibility of teenagers due to various factors, including peer pressure, the desire for acceptance, and coping mechanisms for stress or mental health issues.

The Don further called on teachers, government and non-governmental organisations to encourage and reward positive behaviours as alternatives to drug use among youths in the country.

The campaign team (students, faculty members, and officers from the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA)) which was led by Professor Florence Adeoti Yusuf visited Taiyelolu Memorial College in Ipetu Ijesa, Oriade Local Government Area of Osun State.

Also in his remarks Dr. Peter Sanjo Adewale encouraged participants to “ACT RIGHT” and “SAY NO” to drug abuse wherever they find themselves, regardless of the pressure coming from their peers.

According to him “The slogan ‘Act Right and Say No’ was chanted several times by the participants and was finally adopted as the campaign’s slogan.”

Equally in his admonition Dr. Shogbesan Yusuf emphasised the need for students to form a Club to be named “Say No to Drug “.

The Team members of the campaign team are Dons from Osun State University,College of Education.

They are Drs .Shogbesan Yusuf, Imran Adesile, Nasrudeen Malik, Ganiyu Iroko, Uchenna Okeke, Timothy Eebo, Peter Adewale,Opeyemi Olofinsawo, Romoke Edu Ogunlana and Mr.Olayiwola Makinde, Mr.Suleiman Ibrahim and Gbenga Ologbenla.

During the campaign, the UniOsun (Ipetu-Ijesa) drama troop led by Dr. Opeyemi Olajumoke Olofinsawo staged a drama titled ‘The Evil Effect of Drug Abuse.’

The NDLEA Ilesa Area Commander, Mr Ayegbusi Raphael Abiodun also outlined various substances categorised as drugs that are frequently abused by youths. He warned the participants of the dangers of drug abuse, ranging from mental health problems to physical health issues.