The Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to supporting initiatives aimed at combating drug and substance abuse among the youth.
Governor Otti stated this while declaring open the National Convention of the National Association of Nigeria Student Nurses and Midwives (NANSNM), held at the International Conference Center, Umuahia.
The Governor, represented by his special Assistant on Students Affairs Comrade Chinedu Nwosu, while commending the association for choosing Abia State as the venue for the national convention, described symposium as a timely and much needed platform to explore the challenges posed by drug abuse and to create solutions for safeguarding the future of the nation.
“Substance abuse among youths is a major concern not only in Nigeria but across the globe. Our young people, who are meant to be the leaders of tomorrow, are increasingly falling prey to the harmful effects of drug addiction.
“This symposium is a timely and much needed platform to explore the challenges posed by drug abuse and to create solutions for safeguarding the future of our nation”, Gov Otti said.
He emphasized that student nurses and midwives are vital in the ongoing battle against drug abuse, stating that their role in educating and sensitizing the public is critical.
The Governor noted that the state government has already implemented several strategies to curb drug and substance abuse among young people.
He added that the present administration through the Office of the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Youth Development, has been actively engaging communities and schools to raise awareness about the dangers of drug abuse and stressed that abstinence is essential for maintaining a healthy and productive lifestyle.
In his remarks, the President, National Association of Nigeria Student Nurses and Midwives, Obinna Ogbonna, expressed gratitude to Governor Otti for supporting the convention.
He explained that the annual event serves as a platform for student nurses and midwives to address both professional and societal issues and emphasized that the theme of this year’s convention, “The Effects of Drug and Substance Use Among the Youths”, was chosen to educate participants about the harmful consequences of drug abuse.
The convention which attracted student nurses and midwives from across the country featured discussions on the critical issues facing healthcare professionals and the society at large.
