By Frank Ulom
Prominent sports administrator and Chairman of Cross River State Table Tennis Association, and Canaan Table Tennis Club, Rt. Hon. Orok Otu Duke, has identified sports as Nigeria’s most potent weapon in the fight against drug abuse, urging governments, corporate organisations, and community leaders to invest more in youth-focused sporting programmes as a strategy for preventing substance abuse.
Speaking in a statement to mark the 2026 International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, Duke who represents Cross River State in the Niger Delta Development Commission, NDDC, said meaningful engagement through sports provides young people with purpose, discipline, and opportunities that reduce their vulnerability to drug abuse and other social vices.
According to him, the battle against drug abuse cannot be won through law enforcement alone but requires sustained investments in youth development, education, mentorship, and recreational activities.
“Sports is Nigeria’s greatest weapon against drug abuse. Every young person engaged in productive sporting activities is less likely to fall victim to substance abuse. Through sports, we build discipline, resilience, confidence, and hope for a better future,” Duke stated.
He described drug abuse as a growing threat to families, communities, and national development, warning that the increasing rate of substance abuse among young people demands urgent and collective action from all stakeholders.
Drawing from his experience in sports development, Duke noted that sporting activities have consistently proven to be effective platforms for keeping young people positively engaged while nurturing talents capable of representing the country on national and international stages.
He stressed that beyond producing champions, sports instil values such as teamwork, hard work, perseverance, and respect for rules, qualities that help young people make responsible life choices.
The sports administrator called on governments at all levels to prioritise the development of sporting infrastructure, revive grassroots competitions, and integrate sports into broader youth empowerment initiatives. He also urged parents, schools, faith-based organisations, and community groups to play active roles in educating young people about the dangers of drug abuse.
Duke further commended the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), security agencies, healthcare professionals, civil society organisations, and volunteers for their efforts in combating drug trafficking and supporting individuals recovering from substance addiction.
“As we commemorate World Drug Day, let us move beyond awareness campaigns and commit to practical solutions. Investing in sports is an investment in healthier communities, safer streets, and a more productive generation. Together, we can build a society where young people choose purpose over drugs and opportunity over addiction,” he said.
The International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking is observed annually on June 26 to strengthen global action and cooperation towards achieving a world free of drug abuse and illicit trafficking.
