Hope Rises in Olieogo Umuseti as Community Declares War on Drug Abuse
By Chuks Ododo
UMUSETI/Nigeria: In a powerful show of unity and resolve, Olieogo Umuseti Community of Utagba Uno Clan, Ndokwa West, has taken a bold step in the fight against the rising tide of drug abuse, hosting a major Drug Awareness Campaign that set a new benchmark for grassroots advocacy in Delta State.
The campaign, held Saturday, April 19, 2025, at the Olieogo Umuseti Community Field, was spearheaded by the Umuseti Insight Project, Home and Diaspora, in collaboration with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA). It sent a loud and clear message: Olieogo Umuseti will not stand by while drug abuse threatens the future of its youth and the fabric of its society.
Concerned by the alarming spread of substance abuse among young people, which has led to insecurity, broken families, and wasted potential, the community rallied stakeholders from home and abroad for a day of action, education, and healing.
The event drew an impressive turnout, including representatives from the NDLEA, Nigerian Police, healthcare professionals, community leaders, traditional rulers, youth organizations, women’s groups, security vigilantes, and state government officials.
In a series of engaging sessions, experts delved into the devastating physical, psychological, legal, and social consequences of drug abuse. But it wasn’t just a lecture — the dialogue was open, candid, and deeply personal, creating an environment where both young and old could ask tough questions and receive honest answers.
Among the distinguished participants were Onotu Ukwu Patrick Ogbedo and the Council of Chiefs, executives of the Community Development Committee (CDC), staff and students of Olieogo Secondary School, NYSC corps members, women’s groups such as Otu Good Name and Otu Udo, and security outfits safeguarding the community.
One of the day’s most stirring moments came when a reformed addict, who fought a 32-year battle with substance abuse, shared his painful journey of addiction and redemption. His story, raw and unfiltered, moved many to tears and served as a powerful reminder of both the devastation of drugs and the hope of recovery.
The campaign went beyond raising awareness — it rekindled a spirit of unity, love, and shared responsibility across Olieogo Umuseti. Leaders emphasized that every member of the community has a role to play in building a culture that protects, uplifts, and empowers the youth.
With this landmark initiative, Olieogo Umuseti has positioned itself as a leader in Ndokwa West’s grassroots movement against drug abuse. The campaign was not the culmination but the beginning of a sustained effort to rid the community of drugs and restore hope to a generation at risk.
As one participant put it, “We have started something powerful here. We won’t stop until our community is drug-free and our youth are empowered to thrive.”
The Umuseti Insight Project extended heartfelt appreciation to all who contributed financially, materially, or through active participation, affirming that through collective effort, Olieogo Umuseti is building not just a stronger community today, but a lasting legacy for generations to come.
