WACT-APM Terminals Nigeria partners with NDLEA to celebrate the International Day of the Boy Child in host community with focus on Drug Awareness

WACT-APM Terminals Nigeria marked the International Day of the Boy Child with an impactful event that combined celebration with a crucial message of awareness last Friday. The event which held in Government Secondary School, Onne, Eleme LGA, Rivers State featured engaging activities and a special session led by representatives of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), addressing the critical issue of drug abuse among young boys.

According to WACT-APM Terminals Nigeria, the organization has the tradition of celebrating the International Day of the Girl Child annually and this year, has decided to start celebrating the importance of boys' well-being and the positive aspects they bring to their communities and families in line with the company's principle of inclusivity.

By recognizing the vulnerability of young boys to the dangers of substance abuse, the company partnered with the NDLEA to deliver targeted and age-appropriate information, which is a vital proactive step under the company's CSR theme of Education.

"According to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), approximately 40% of Nigerian youths aged between 18 and 35 are deeply involved in drug abuse.  This statistic was highlighted during a stakeholders' meeting in Lagos in August 2021, where NDLEA officials emphasized the alarming nature of this trend and its implications for national development.

As a development expert, I am aware of developmental pressures that the boy-child faces, ranging from peer relationships, seeking independence from parents while still needing supports, social media influence and risk-taking behaviors, leading to increased experimentation with alcohol, drugs, sex or other risky activities.

The NDLEA as a national agency has been involved and well-equipped in the education of various groups about the dangers of drug abuse in Nigeria and they naturally become the right resource agency for us to collaborate with to sensitize the young boys in Government Secondary School, Onne," said WACT-APM Terminals Nigeria, Community Relations Manager, Justin Okwuofu.

The NDLEA representatives conducted an interactive session that covered: The dangers and consequences of drug abuse, Peer pressure and how to resist it, Healthy coping mechanisms and alternatives to drug use and where to seek help and support.

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, Deputy Commander, Drug Demand Reduction, Onne, Gloria Chikanele Anazodo, addressed the young boys on the importance of right choices as a tool to building self-esteem, "I’m truly honored to be here with you today as we mark the International Day of the Boy-Child. This year's theme, “Building Self-Esteem in Boys: Stand Up, Be Heard, Be Seen,” is not just powerful—it’s personal. It reminds us that every boy here is important, valuable, and full of potential. But to truly stand up, be heard, and be seen in the right way, you must make the right choices, especially when it comes to things that affect your mind and your future. One of the biggest threats to your future is drug use. Don't let drugs take that away from you. Stand tall, make wise choices; and remember—the best version of you is drug-free," she said.

Also speaking, one of the school teachers, Deborah Ogosu appreciated the management of WACT-APM Terminals Nigeria, highlighting their roles in raising valuable youths.

"I want to thank the WACT company. In fact, this is not the first time. They have almost become our partners in raising valuable youths for the society especially here in Government Secondary School, Onne. They have come several times, they have partnered with us, they have worked with us, and they have also brought skill acquisition programmes. Each time we have a special day for the girls, they are always here and it's thoughtful they are here for the boys today. The issue of drug abuse in our society today is one that cannot be overemphasised, and we are happy that the WACT company has been able to catch the students young," she said.

The event created a balanced program that was both educational and enjoyable for the boys and the participation of the NDLEA added a powerful dimension, addressing a critical social issue that directly impacts the well-being of young males.

WACT-APM Terminals Nigeria remains committed to improving life for all through their various social responsibility initiatives. By addressing the issue of drug abuse, the organization demonstrated a holistic approach to supporting the development of boy children, ensuring they are not only empowered but also protected from harm.

Its various CSR initiatives include the donation of a 10 KVA solar power to the Primary health care center in its host communities, the training of over 300 women in business development, the training of over 1, 300 old and young women in Rivers State in the production of eco-friendly reuseable sanitary pads, scholarship awards, infrastructure development, amongst many others.