The Vice Chancellor of the University of Calabar (Unical), Prof. Offiong Efanga Offiong, has reaffirmed the institution’s commitment to maintaining a drug-free academic environment adding that the university management will continue to implement measures aimed at curbing substance abuse among students and staff.
Prof. Offiong stated this when a team from the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), led by the State Commander, paid a courtesy visit to his office.
During an interactive session held in the Vice Chancellor's Conference room, Prof. Offiong expressed his delight over the visit, describing it as timely and strategic, even as he noted the increasing reports of drug abuse among some students and staff members.
He emphasized that Unical remains committed to promoting a drug-free campus, stressing that the management will not allow drug-related activities to tarnish the institution’s reputation.
The Vice Chancellor added that the university will continue to sustain an environment that discourages substance abuse.
Prof. Offiong commended the State Commander and his team for their diligence in identifying areas where such activities are allegedly taking place.
He urged the agency to develop a comprehensive proposal and strategy to tackle the menace effectively.
The university administrator further assured the NDLEA of the university’s full support and cooperation, including granting the necessary access required to combat and eradicate drug-related activities within the campus and its environs.
Earlier, the State Commander of the NDLEA, CN Anteyi John, stated that the fight against drug abuse is everyone’s responsibility, adding that drugs and crime are closely linked.
According to him, the purpose of the visit was to strengthen collaboration and partnership between the agency and the university.
He noted that such cooperation would promote integrity and urged the university management to embrace drug testing initiatives.
The State Commander also highlighted the importance of continuous sensitization and awareness campaigns, stressing that drug abuse affects all segments of society.
He maintained that most serious crimes are associated with drug use and emphasized that sensitization efforts must go beyond advocacy to include practical measures aimed at prevention and control.
The highpoint of the visit was the investiture of the Vice Chancellor, Prof. Offiong Efanga Offiong as an Ambassador of the fight against Drug Abuse.
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