Truth Chapel of NUJ Holds Seminar on Drug Abuse and Prostitution at West-End Mixed Secondary School, Asaba
By Ikebuwa Patrick
The Truth Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Delta State Council, has recently organized a highly impactful seminar on Drug Abuse and Prostitution at West-End Mixed Secondary School, Asaba. The event, which was both informative and didactic, drew notable guests and stakeholders in a collective effort to address the twin societal challenges of drug abuse and prostitution — described as “two sides of the same coin.”
In his welcome address, the Chapel Chairman, Comrade Chiedu Bandoh, highlighted the vulnerability of Nigerian youths in the 21st century, noting that many have been misled into believing that getting “high” is a cool way to escape life’s challenges. He emphasized that such beliefs are false and dangerous, adding that drug use is not freedom but deception. On prostitution, he warned that while it may appear glamorous or rewarding at first, it carries severe physical, emotional, and moral consequences that have destroyed countless promising lives and dreams.
The Delta State Council Chairman of NUJ, Comrade Churchill Oyowe, commended the Truth Chapel for initiating such a timely and notable sensitization programme. He urged students to choose knowledge over drugs and prostitution, describing the seminar as a valuable platform for awareness, education, and empowerment. He reaffirmed the critical role of the media in shaping societal values and promoting positive change.
The Member Representing Oshimili South in the Delta State House of Assembly, Hon. Barr. (Mrs) Bridget Anyafulu, who was a guest speaker, delivered a lecture on “Understanding Prostitution: Myths, Realities, and Societal Views.” She explained that prostitution is neither honorable nor desirable, stressing that no one proudly identifies with it in formal settings. She described prostitution and drug abuse as “a marriage of destruction,” working together to ruin lives and futures. Drawing from Proverbs 23:27–28, she outlined the dangers of prostitution, including human trafficking, health risks, and psychological trauma.
Also speaking, the Director of the National Orientation Agency, Mrs. Tracy Ikolomi, delivered a lecture on “Drugs and Your Future: Impacts on Goals, Relationships and Opportunities.” She expressed concern over the rising rate of drug addiction among youths, noting its spread to students. She urged early intervention and warned about the long-term damage drugs inflict on the brain. She further explained that rehabilitation can be costly and difficult, and that drug adiction often leads to social rejection and loss of opportunities. She commended the Truth Chapel for its proactive role in raising awareness.
Representing the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Ms. Edith gave a practical session titled “Drugs and Brain Power: How Substance Abuse Affects Cognitive Health.” Her presentation on the harmful effects of drugs left many students emotional. She also highlighted unconventional substances currently being abused, such as the inhalation of sanitary pads and other harmful materials, warning that hard drugs offer no benefits.
The Publisher of the Chapel, Mr. Kingsley Azuh, stressed the importance of prioritizing knowledge and discipline over temporary pleasures that destroy dreams. He reiterated the seminar’s role in empowering young minds to make better choices.
In their vote of thanks, students, led by the Assistant Head Boy, Ejiofor Michael, expressed deep appreciation to the Truth Chapel. He noted that the seminar was not merely a lecture but an eye-opening experience, enhanced by visual projections that made the lessons clearer. He appealed for more such enlightening programmes in the future.
