June 30, 2026
The Wife of the Governor of Cross River State and Chairman of the Cross River State Drug Control Committee, Her Excellency, Bishop Dr. (Mrs.) Eyoanwan Bassey Otu, has reaffirmed the state’s unwavering commitment to combating substance abuse and promoting a drug-free society. The First Lady made this known during the commemoration of the 2026 World Drug Day, organised by the International Society of Substance Use Professionals (ISSUP), Nigeria Chapter, Cross River State, under the theme: “The World Drug Problem: Persisting Issues, New Challenges, Innovative Responses.”
As the Chief Host of the event, Her Excellency was represented by the Vice Chairman of the Cross River State Drug Control Committee and Commissioner for Education, Senator Professor Stephen Odey, who delivered her goodwill message to participants.
In her address, the First Lady commended the International Society of Substance Use Professionals for bringing together policymakers, healthcare professionals, educators, traditional rulers, security agencies, development partners, and community leaders to collectively confront the growing challenge of drug abuse. Her Excellency, described substance abuse as more than a public health concern, stressing that it is a social, economic, and security challenge that deprives young people of their dreams, weakens families, fuels violence, and undermines national development.
“As new psychoactive substances emerge and trafficking methods become increasingly sophisticated, our response must also evolve through innovation, collaboration, prevention, treatment, and sustained public education,”
Her Excellency emphasized that the Cross River State Government remains committed to safeguarding the future of its young people by promoting healthy lifestyles, strengthening family values, and creating opportunities that empower them to make informed and responsible choices. She noted that every individual rescued from substance abuse and every young person educated on the dangers of drugs represents meaningful progress in the fight against addiction and contributes to building stronger communities.
The First Lady also lauded the efforts of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), healthcare providers, counselors, civil society organisations, faith-based institutions, and other stakeholders for their unwavering commitment to preventing substance abuse and providing rehabilitation and hope for individuals battling addiction.
“As Chairman of the Cross River State Drug Control Committee, I will continue to advocate for increased awareness, preventive education, mental health support, and stronger partnerships that promote the well-being of women, children, and other vulnerable groups,” she stated.
Calling for collective action, she stressed that the fight against substance abuse requires the commitment of every family, school, community, and institution. Addressing young people directly, the First Lady encouraged them to embrace purpose, ambition, and hope instead of yielding to the pressures of drug abuse.
“Choose purpose over pressure, ambition over addiction, and hope over harmful substances. Your future is too valuable to be sacrificed to drugs. You have the potential to become leaders, innovators, and agents of positive change,” she urged.
The Wife of the Governor concluded by calling on all stakeholders to renew their collective resolve to build a Cross River State where every young person can thrive in a safe, healthy, and drug-free environment.
As a highlight of the event, the International Society of Substance Use Professionals (ISSUP) decorated Her Excellency, Bishop Dr. (Mrs.) Eyoanwan Bassey Otu, in recognition of her outstanding support and commitment to the campaign for a substance-free Cross River State. The honour acknowledged her sustained efforts in promoting drug abuse prevention, awareness, and healthier communities across the state.
The event brought together representatives of government agencies, the NDLEA, health professionals, educators, traditional rulers, security agencies, development partners, civil society organisations, and other stakeholders committed to addressing substance abuse and promoting healthier communities across the state.