In what is being described as a decisive offensive against the rising tide of narcotics and substance addiction, Delta State is preparing for a high-level strategic sensitization campaign. On Thursday, May 21, 2026, the historic grounds of Government College Ughelli will serve as the epicenter for a movement aimed at reclaiming the future of the state's youth
The initiative is the result of a powerhouse collaboration between the Federated Union of Community Newspaper Publishers of Nigeria (FUCPN) and the International Center for Women Empowerment and Child Development (ICWECD). Recognizing that the war on drugs cannot be won by enforcement alone, the two organizations are leaning into the power of education and community mobilization.
Underscoring the gravity of the drug crisis, the event will host the upper echelon of Delta State’s leadership. The Governor of Delta State , Rt. Hon. Elder Sheriff Oborevwori is expected to attend as the Special Guest of Honor, signaling a firm policy commitment to public health and safety.
He will also most likely be joined by the First Lady of Delta State, whose advocacy for family and child welfare aligns with the campaign’s core mission.
Technical and tactical expertise will be provided by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), alongside seasoned resource persons who will provide data-driven insights into the prevention of substance abuse.
Unlike traditional seminars, this campaign is designed to be a "town hall" of ideas.
The invitation list reflects a cross-section of society:
Traditional Rulers: custodians of culture and community discipline.
Local government chairmen and councillors tasked with grassroots implementation.
Civil Society: NGOs, labour unions, and professional associations.
Market women groups and religious leaders who hold significant influence over community social fabric.
Most importantly, the campaign places students from secondary and tertiary institutions at the center of the dialogue.
By involving youth directly, the organizers aim to foster a peer-to-peer resistance model against drug peddlers and addiction culture.
Beyond the Speeches
The May 21st event will move beyond rhetoric with:
Interactive Workshops: Empowering attendees to recognize the "red flags" of addiction.
Strategies for parents and educators to intervene early.
Creating a roadmap for sustained advocacy beyond the event.
"The drug abuse crisis is a multifaceted monster that threatens our health, economy, and security," the organizing committee said. "The synergy between the media (FUCPN), civil society (ICWECD), and government agencies represents the united front necessary to win this battle."