*Explores drug abuse direct links to sexual violence dangers

By Achadu Gabriel, kaduna

In a most rewarding collaboration, Zonkwa Committee Dialogue Community (CDC), National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), and Kaduna State Sexual Assault and Referral Center (SARC) Zone 3, have hosted a critical sensitization session for secondary school students in Zangon Kataf LGA, with Global Rights Support (GRS).

The event, focusing on the dangers of drug abuse and its direct link to sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV), is to address how drugs contribute to violence, exploitation, and unsafe environment, according to statement by the organisers on Tuesday, in kaduna State.

The statement noted that “Students were also trained as Youth Gender Champions, empowering them to be an advocates for safe communities, gender equality, and drug abuse prevention in their schools and neighborhoods.

In a remarks, Luka Y. Adankat, Chairman of Zonkwa CDC, urged the participant, primarily young girls and boys from secondary schools, to serve as positive ambassadors for their communities, advocating for change and promoting a future violence and abuse-free community.

Also in his remarks, Ahmadu Bello Adamu, from the NDLEA provided insightful training to the students, focusing on the dangers of drug abuse and its devastating link to sexual and gender-based violence, while equipping them with the knowledge to make informed, responsible decisions.

Grace Yohanna Abbin, the SARC Coordinator highlighted the importance of youth involvement in combating Gender Based Violence (GBV) and drug abuse, noting that “Young people are critical in changing harmful behaviors and creating a safer and healthier future”.

Highlight of the event includes “Let’s support our youth in making a stand against violence and substance abuse! #YouthChampions #EndGBV #DrugAbuseAwareness #SGBVPrevention #16DaysOfActivism #ZangonKataf #SARC #NDLEA and #SafeCommunities, respectfully.