NAVIGATING THE DEPTHS OF SUBSTANCE ABUSE: A NAPS UI NDLEA CONFERENCE

By Otunla Oluwadarasimi

On the 10th of November 2023, the long-awaited NAPS UI× NDLEA conference unfolded at the SRC Chamber, SUB, under the theme "Understanding the Dangers of Hard Drugs." Although scheduled to commence at 10 am, the program kicked off at 10:40 due to the arrival and settling down of NDLEA officials from the Oyo state command, committed to the war against drug abuse.

Distinguished figures from the department graced the event, including the Undergraduate Coordinator, Madam President, AGS, Sports Director, Vice President, PRO, and other executives. Notable attendees also included the FATSSSA Editor-in-Chief and the Psychlens Editor-in-Chief.

The proceedings commenced with a fervent opening prayer by the Vice President, followed by an introductory speech from the department's President. Mrs. Celine Edema, one of the two officials present, delved into a session on substance abuse, shedding light on its causes, signs, stages, and side effects. The session concluded at 11:28, after which the Sports Director expressed gratitude to the officials and facilitated a Q&A session.

The second official then presented various confiscated substances, providing insight into their names and origins. The program sessions concluded at 12:01 with a closing speech from the Undergraduate Coordinator, also the lecturer in charge of the 300-level course on substance use.

Post-program, a certificate of appreciation was awarded to the officials by the Sports Director, followed by photo sessions with the executives and attendees. A systematic check for paid attendees ensured the distribution of packages to those who had paid for the conference.

The event not only highlighted the collaborative efforts of NAPS UI and NDLEA but also served as a comprehensive guide in understanding and combating substance abuse. The insights shared during the conference served as a fostering awareness and a proactive measure against the perils of hard drugs.