SECTOR 2 OPHK TAKES ANTI-DRUG CAMPAIGN TO YOBE STUDENTS…Emphasises Education, Prevention, National Security

SECTOR 2 OPHK TAKES ANTI-DRUG CAMPAIGN TO YOBE STUDENTS…Emphasises Education, Prevention, National Security

The Commander, Sector 2, Joint Task Force (North East), Operation HADIN KAI (OPHK), Brigadier General Edet Effiong, has led an anti-drug awareness campaign for students in Yobe State, underscoring the importance of education in preventing drug and substance abuse and its associated security implications.

The awareness lecture, held on Thursday, 24 September 2026 at Government Girls Unity College, Damaturu, was themed “Education as a Strategic Tool for Combating Drugs and Substance Abuse: Impact on National Security.” The programme brought together over 300 students drawn from schools across Yobe State and formed part of efforts to sensitise young people on the dangers of substance abuse while promoting responsible citizenship.

Speaking on behalf of the Chief of Army Staff, Lieutenant General Waidi Shaibu NAM, Brigadier General Effiong described drug abuse as a threat to the wellbeing and future of young people, noting that its consequences could extend beyond individuals to families, communities and national security. He urged the students to make education, discipline and positive choices their defence against harmful substances.

The Sector Commander further noted that preventing drug abuse complements broader efforts to deny criminal and terrorist networks opportunities to exploit vulnerable young people or benefit from illicit activities. He reaffirmed the Nigerian Army’s commitment to supporting initiatives that strengthen community resilience, particularly through constructive engagement with youths and relevant government agencies.

In his remarks, The Special Guest of Honour and Director of Schools Management, Yobe State Ministry of Basic and Secondary Education, Idriss Mohammed Fune, commended the initiative and encouraged the students to extend the anti-drug message to their peers, families and communities. He also urged educators to sustain awareness on the dangers of substance abuse in schools.

The programme featured presentations by facilitators from the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), while writing materials were distributed to students. Souvenirs were also presented as part of activities marking the event.

The initiative reflects the non-kinetic component of ongoing efforts within the Joint Operations Area to address factors capable of fuelling crime and insecurity. Through sustained collaboration with schools, communities and relevant agencies, Sector 2 OPHK continues to complement ongoing operations with preventive engagements aimed at strengthening public awareness, community resilience and long-term security.

ABSOLOM KANDALA
Lieutenant
Acting Assistant Director Army Public Relations
Headquarters Sector 2, Joint Task Force (North East) Operation HADIN KAI
DAMATURU
24 September 2026