The Adorable Foundation International (AFI), a non-governmental organization, has announced the commencement of a school-to-school campaign in Anambra State aimed at sensitizing students on the dangers of drug abuse. This was disclosed by the founder of the organization, Princess Ada Amam, during a press conference in Awka yesterday.

The press conference also served as an introduction to the group’s beauty pageant, scheduled to take place on Wednesday to mark International Drug-Free Day.

“We are here to introduce to you the Queen of ASACADA beauty pageant, which is a brainchild of AFI. ASACADA stands for A Societal Awareness Campaign Against Drug Abuse,” said Amam. “We noticed that drug abuse among young people is on the rise, and this is not limited to males only, but females too. The goal is to fight drug abuse using the youths who are those mostly involved.”

Amam elaborated that the pageant will take place on Wednesday, where one contestant will be crowned as Queen of ASACADA. The winner will then embark on a campaign to various schools to educate students about the dangers of drug abuse.

Founded in 2017, the Adorable Foundation International was established by like-minded individuals aiming to support drug agencies, such as the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), in raising awareness among youths about the risks of illicit drug use.

Mr. Ken Okoli, President of the Anambra State Association of Town Unions (ASATU) youth wing, praised the initiative and pledged to support the campaign against drug abuse in all communities. “Peer group pressure is the biggest influence in drug abuse. We must let our youths know that drugs can destroy their vision and mission in life. Drug abuse has caused a lot of harm, and it is alarming that more ladies are getting involved these days,” Okoli stated.

He also highlighted the efforts of the wife of the governor of Anambra State, Mrs. Nonye Soludo, who is a strong advocate for healthy living and campaigns against drug abuse. “I promise to facilitate a meeting between this group and the next Queen of ASACADA, so that you can receive the support needed to carry out the school-to-school campaign against drug abuse,” he assured.

The AFI’s campaign is set to make a significant impact in the fight against drug abuse among young people in Anambra State, leveraging peer influence and proactive community engagement to promote a drug-free society.