Premiere Academy, Abuja, has reinforced its commitment to creating a safe learning environment by partnering with the Abuja Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) to educate students on the dangers of drug abuse and substance misuse in the Abuja metropolis.

The one-day drug awareness seminar focused on helping students understand the health, social and legal consequences associated with substance abuse while encouraging them to make informed decisions and resist peer pressure.

Designed as an interactive engagement, the programme allowed students to ask questions and participate in discussions with NDLEA officers, helping to strengthen character development and prepare them to become responsible, value-driven leaders.

The NDLEA delegation comprised three officers led by the Chief Superintendent of Narcotics, Nduka Augustine. He was accompanied by Assistant Superintendent of Narcotics II, Chilaka Chinedum, and Assistant Superintendent of Narcotics II, Asabe Adole Sukai.

Speaking during the seminar, the Principal of Premiere Academy, Mr. Chris Akinsowon, described the programme as an annual initiative that reflects the school’s zero-tolerance policy on drugs and substance abuse.

According to Akinsowon, the initiative was introduced to address increasing concerns among parents who expect schools not only to deliver academic excellence but also to provide a secure and disciplined environment that instills the right values for students to succeed in life.

“Today’s parents are no longer asking about grades alone. They want to know whether their children are in a safe and disciplined environment, surrounded by the right values and influences, and whether the school will equip them to navigate life’s challenges with confidence,” he said.

He added that Premiere Academy remains committed to providing holistic education through sustained awareness programmes that educate students about the dangers of drug abuse and encourage responsible decision-making.

Akinsowon also urged governments, schools, parents and other stakeholders to continue supporting drug awareness campaigns, particularly among secondary school students, emphasizing that early education plays a critical role in preventing substance abuse.

Commending the school’s efforts, the leader of the NDLEA team, Augustine, described drug abuse among Nigerian youths as an increasing challenge. He cited statistics showing that more than 14 million Nigerians aged between 15 and 64 have used drugs at least once.

He linked the trend to the widespread availability of illicit substances, peer pressure and the glamorisation of drug use across social media platforms, stressing the importance of stronger collaboration among stakeholders to safeguard young people.

“Quality education today goes beyond books and grades. It is about preparing students for life. Young people are increasingly exposed to harmful influences, and all institutions responsible for their upbringing must work together to provide a strong shield against drug abuse,” he said.

Augustine further encouraged students to actively support the campaign against drug abuse by resisting negative peer influence, remaining committed to their education and avoiding substances capable of jeopardizing their future.

He also warned that drug abuse continues to be a leading cause of death among Nigerian youths and has severe long-term consequences for both physical and mental health.