Nigeria’s first Olympic gold medalist, Dr. (Mrs.) Chioma Ajunwa Oparah, through the Chioma Ajunwa Foundation, has announced a comprehensive programme of activities to commemorate the 2026 United Nations International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, with a strong call for collective action against the growing menace of substance abuse among Nigerian youths.
The campaign, being organised in collaboration with The Presidency of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the Chinese Consular General and the Chinese Community in Nigeria, is expected to attract top government officials, diplomats, traditional rulers, security chiefs, religious leaders and community stakeholders.
According to details released by the foundation, the main event will hold on Friday, June 26, 2026, by 10:00 a.m. prompt at the Police College, Ikeja, Lagos State.
The United Nations designated June 26 as the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking to strengthen global action and cooperation towards building societies free from drug abuse and illicit drug trafficking. The observance has become one of the world’s most important annual platforms for promoting prevention, education and rehabilitation.
This year’s edition is being described as one of the biggest anti-drug advocacy gatherings in Nigeria, with several eminent personalities expected to grace the occasion.
The Chairman of the programme is Distinguished Senator Prince Ned Nwoko.
The Special Guest of Honour is the Consul General of the People’s Republic of China, while the Deputy Consul General of the German Embassy in Lagos will serve as a Guest of Honour.
The Vice Chairman of the occasion is the Executive Chairman of Ajeromi-Ifelodun Local Government Area.
The Royal Father of the Day is His Majesty Eze Christian Okechukwu, Eze Ndigbo I of Lagos State.
The Royal Mother of the Day is Assistant Inspector General (AIG) Mrs. Omolara, Commandant of the Police College, Ikeja.
Also expected is Bishop Chris Akano of Revival City Church, Ikeja, alongside numerous public office holders, community leaders and stakeholders from across Nigeria.
As part of activities marking World Drug Day 2026, the NDLEA Directorate of Seaports Operations, in conjunction with the Olympian Chioma Ajunwa Foundation, will organise a novelty football match to promote healthy living and youth engagement.
The match will feature:
NDLEA WADA Male Team
Vs
Olympian Chioma Ajunwa Veteran Female Team
Date: Thursday, June 25, 2026
Time: 3:00 p.m. (15:00hrs)
Venue: Police College Field, Ikeja, Lagos State.
Organisers say the sporting event is designed to amplify awareness that sports remain one of the most effective tools for steering young people away from drug abuse and criminal activities.
Organisers also hope that the scale and impact of this year’s programme will inspire more senators, members of the National Assembly, state legislators, local government chairmen, community leaders and corporate organisations to join future editions of the campaign.
“This is no longer just an annual event; it is a national call to action. Drug abuse and illicit trafficking have taken away many of our brightest minds, and everyone must rise to defend the future of our young people,” the organisers stated.
The campaign is expected to strengthen collaboration among government institutions, law enforcement agencies, diplomatic missions, traditional institutions, faith-based organisations and civil society groups in the fight against narcotics and substance abuse.
With the theme of promoting a drug-free society, the Chioma Ajunwa Foundation says its vision is to ensure that prevention, awareness, mentorship and youth empowerment become central pillars in safeguarding Nigeria’s future.
