Nigeria at 66: Drug Abuse Advocacy Group Calls for Unity, Patriotism, Peaceful Participation
The Advocacy Against Drug Abuse and Rehabilitation Awareness Initiative Nationwide has called on Nigerians to demonstrate greater patriotism, unity and peaceful participation in national affairs as the country marks its 66th Independence Anniversary.
The organisation made the call in a goodwill message signed by its National Publicity Secretary, John Wakawa, on behalf of the National Working Committee, Zonal and State Coordinators, Local Government Coordinators, members and supporters of the initiative.
The statement, issued in Abuja on October 1, 2026, conveyed greetings to Nigerians at home and in the diaspora, as well as the Federal and state governments, the National Assembly, state Houses of Assembly, traditional and religious leaders, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), security agencies, civil society organisations and other stakeholders.
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The National Coordinator of the organisation, Hon. Bala Salihu Dawakin Kudu, described the 66th Independence Anniversary as an opportunity for sober reflection, renewed patriotism and collective responsibility.
Dawakin Kudu acknowledged the sacrifices of Nigeria’s founding fathers and citizens who had contributed to the country’s development, stressing that independence comes with responsibilities as well as privileges.
He urged Nigerians to uphold peace, unity, tolerance, mutual respect, hard work, responsible citizenship and respect for the rule of law.
A major focus of the statement was the need for stronger collective action against drug abuse, which the organisation described as a serious social and public-health challenge requiring sustained collaboration among government institutions, families, schools, communities, traditional and religious leaders, youth organisations, civil society groups and security agencies.
The National Coordinator called on members of the organisation and Nigerians across the six geopolitical zones to intensify public awareness campaigns on the dangers of drug abuse, strengthen prevention initiatives and support rehabilitation programmes.
He also urged stakeholders to protect vulnerable young people and encourage individuals affected by substance abuse to seek appropriate assistance and rehabilitation.
“As we celebrate 66 years of independence, let us renew our commitment to building a peaceful, united and drug-free Nigeria. The fight against drug abuse is a shared responsibility. Every parent, teacher, community leader, young person and citizen has a role to play,” he said.
The organisation further appealed to Nigerians to express their views and participate in civic activities peacefully, responsibly and respectfully, noting that national development requires an atmosphere of peace, tolerance and constructive engagement.
Dawakin Kudu reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to drug-abuse prevention, public awareness, rehabilitation, reintegration and community-based advocacy across the country.
He also called for stronger collaboration among traditional and religious leaders, government institutions, educational institutions, youth and women’s organisations, the media, security agencies and other stakeholders to prevent drug abuse and protect Nigerian youths.
The organisation urged Nigerians to place national interest above divisions and work collectively towards building a safer, healthier, peaceful and more prosperous nation.
It also used the occasion of the Independence Anniversary to renew its appeal for greater commitment to protecting communities and young people from the dangers associated with drug abuse.
“Let us celebrate Nigeria with renewed hope, patriotism and a shared determination to protect our communities and our young people from the dangers of drug abuse. Together, we can build a stronger and drug-free Nigeria,” the statement said.
The organisation congratulated Nigerians on the 66th Independence Anniversary and called for continued collective efforts towards national unity, peace and a drug-free society.
DemocracyNewslineNewspaper October 1st, 2026
