Breaking the Chains: Finima Youth Congress Leads the Charge Against Drug Abuse on International Day

FINIMA, Rivers State—June 26, 2025— Today, as the world observes the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, the Finima Youth Congress (FYC) has pledged its unwavering commitment to combating this pervasive issue within its community. Under this year’s poignant theme, “Breaking the Chains: Prevention, Treatment, and Recovery for All”, the FYC has outlined a comprehensive strategy to address the devastating impact of drug abuse on individuals, families, and the broader societal fabric.

The International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, established by the United Nations General Assembly in 1987, serves as a global call to action to strengthen cooperation and achieve the goal of an international society free of drug abuse. This annual observance aims to raise awareness of the major problem that illicit drugs represent to society and to inspire worldwide efforts to reduce drug demand and supply. The theme “Breaking the Chains” resonates deeply with the FYC’s proactive stance, highlighting the critical need for a multi-faceted approach that not only prevents individuals from falling victim to addiction but also provides robust support for those on the path to recovery.

Comrade Abraham Brown, Director of Social Welfare and Youth Development for the Finima Youth Congress, articulated the organisation’s profound concern and sense of responsibility. “As a responsible and concerned youth organisation,” Comr. Brown stated in a press release issued today, “the Finima Youth Congress recognises the devastating impact of drug abuse on individuals, families, and communities. We acknowledge the crucial role we play in prevention and support.” His words underscore the FYC’s understanding that youth organisations, by virtue of their direct engagement with the demographic most vulnerable to drug-related challenges, hold a unique and powerful position in shaping positive outcomes.

The FYC’s strategy is built upon three core pillars: Awareness Creation, Support for Recovery, and Community Engagement. Each pillar is designed to address a distinct yet interconnected aspect of the drug abuse crisis.

Firstly, Awareness Creation will be a cornerstone of the FYC’s efforts. The organisation plans to intensify its educational initiatives, reaching out to its members and the wider Finima community. These efforts will focus on disseminating accurate information about the myriad dangers associated with drug abuse, encompassing both the immediate and long-term health consequences as well as the social and economic repercussions. Furthermore, the campaigns will actively promote healthy lifestyles, emphasising alternative activities and positive coping mechanisms as a bulwark against the allure of illicit substances. This proactive approach aims to equip individuals, particularly young people, with the knowledge and resilience needed to make informed choices and resist peer pressure.

Secondly, the FYC has committed to providing Support for Recovery. This crucial aspect acknowledges that prevention alone is insufficient; many individuals are already grappling with addiction and require empathetic and effective assistance to reclaim their lives. While the specifics of the support mechanisms are yet to be fully detailed, the FYC’s pledge to “ensure they receive the help they need to recover” suggests a commitment to connecting individuals with professional counselling services, rehabilitation programmes, and peer support networks. This could involve acting as a referral service, a liaison with mental health professionals, or even establishing safe spaces for sharing experiences and offering mutual encouragement. The emphasis here is on a compassionate and non-judgemental approach to recovery, recognising that addiction is a complex health issue rather than a moral failing.

Finally, Community Engagement forms the third vital component of the FYC’s strategy. The organisation understands that the fight against drug abuse cannot be waged in isolation. Therefore, it plans to actively engage with local authorities, including law enforcement agencies, as well as other community organisations and stakeholders. This collaborative approach is intended to foster a unified front against drug abuse and illicit trafficking, promoting the sharing of resources, intelligence, and best practices. By working in concert, the FYC believes that a more holistic and effective response can be mounted, addressing not only the symptoms of drug abuse but also its underlying root causes. This could involve joint awareness campaigns, intelligence sharing to disrupt supply chains, or collaborative initiatives to create more opportunities for youth development and engagement, thereby reducing vulnerability to drug use.

In a tangible demonstration of its commitment, the Finima Youth Congress announced that it would commence its fight against drug abuse and illicit trafficking immediately. “In commemoration of this day”, the press release stated, “we will commence the fight against drug abuse and illicit trafficking in our community, collaborating with the law enforcement agencies and others to identify and address the root causes of drug abuse.” This direct call to action signifies a shift from mere rhetoric to concrete steps, signalling the FYC’s readiness to actively participate in intelligence gathering, community policing efforts, and initiatives aimed at dismantling drug networks.

Comr. Abraham Brown concluded his statement with a powerful call for unity: “Together, We Can Make a Difference. Let us join forces to break the chains of drug abuse and illicit trafficking. We urge everyone to get involved in the fight against this scourge.” This message underscores the collective responsibility that lies with every member of society – individuals, families, community groups, and government agencies – to contribute to creating a drug-free environment.

The Finima Youth Congress’s proactive stance on this International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking offers a beacon of hope for the Finima community. By focusing on prevention, providing support for recovery, and fostering robust community engagement, the FYC aims to not only mitigate the devastating effects of drug abuse but also empower its community members to build a healthier, safer, and more prosperous future, free from the insidious grip of addiction. The journey to break the chains of drug abuse is long and challenging, but with dedicated organisations like the Finima Youth Congress leading the charge, the prospect of a brighter tomorrow appears increasingly within reach.