A cross section of participants at World Drug Day 2026 Symposium
The Executive Director of the Caleb Initiative for Drug Abuse Awareness (CIDAA Foundation), Amb. Jeremiah Caleb Onyedikachi, has urged governments, institutions, and citizens to adopt a stronger community response to drug abuse by embracing public health-centred, evidence-based, and human rights-oriented approaches to prevention and recovery.
Speaking at the World Drug Day 2026 Symposium held on Thursday, June 25, 2026, at the Youth Centre in Karu Local Government Area of Nasarawa State, Amb. Caleb delivered a keynote address on the theme, ” _Community Action for Drug Abuse Prevention and Public Health.”_
He stressed that effective responses to substance use disorders extend beyond law enforcement and require sustained investment in prevention, treatment, rehabilitation, recovery, and social reintegration.
He observed that while drug abuse remains a significant public health challenge, lasting progress can only be achieved through coordinated community action involving families, schools, healthcare providers, traditional and religious institutions, youth organisations, civil society, and government agencies.
The Executive Director emphasized that people affected by substance use disorders deserve access to quality healthcare, psychosocial support, and rehabilitation services delivered without stigma or discrimination.
He added that protecting human dignity and promoting social inclusion are essential components of effective drug demand reduction strategies.
According to Amb. Caleb, CIDAA Foundation remains committed to advancing policies and programmes that empower communities, strengthen prevention initiatives, promote healthy lifestyles among young people, and foster partnerships that improve public health outcomes across Nigeria.
He called on stakeholders at all levels to move beyond annual commemorations by implementing practical, community-led interventions that reduce drug-related harm, support recovery, and build resilient, healthy, and drug-free communities for present and future generations.
