For the concluding part of the activities marking the 2025 GSKi Week on End to Violence against Children with the theme “Drug Abuse: Together We Can Beat This Menace.” Global Support for Kids Initiative (GSKi) held a counseling session with street-connected children and at-risk youths in Ekiti and Ogun States.
The session focused on the dangers associated with drug abuse, its impact on individuals and society, and practical steps to overcoming the menace. It was facilitated by professional counselors in person of Mr. Mike Owoseni and Comrade Onifade Funmi, Ogun state Chairman of the Committee for the Defense of Human Rights (CDHR).
The program took place at Dabar, close to Idofin Health Centre beside Mosque off Odo–Ado Road in Ado-Ekiti, and at the Railway Quarters, Lafenwa Railway station, Abeokuta. It commenced at 10:00am and had in attendance 80 street-connected children and youths, alongside key stakeholders including the Director of Child Development from the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development, Child Officer from the ministry, representative of the Nigerian Police Force, community actors, and GSKi staff.
In his opening remarks, GSKi Executive Director, Mr. Opeyemi Olajide Olowookere, described drug abuse as a “silent killer, destroying lives, families, and communities.” He urged the youths to see themselves as future leaders, innovators, and change makers with limitless potential. He emphasized the need to make informed decisions about their health and future, warning that substance abuse often leads to addiction, mental health challenges, and even death. “Our program today aims to educate, inspire, and empower you to make positive choices,” he stated.
During the interactive sessions, the counselors highlighted the dangers of drug use, shared prevention strategies, and encouraged the youths on how to sustain their freedom from harmful substances. They also held one-on-one counseling and an engaging question-and-answer session, giving participants an opportunity to share personal experiences and seek guidance.
