On this International Day Against Drug Abuse, Children, Youth and Women Empowerment Initiative (ChiYoWo) joins voices with communities around the world to raise awareness about the dangers of drug abuse and the urgent need for collective action.

This year’s theme, “The World Drug Problem: Persisting Issues, New Challenges, Innovative Responses,” calls on governments, organizations, families, and individuals to embrace new strategies that promote prevention, rehabilitation, and social inclusion.

Drug abuse remains a major challenge affecting children, youth, families, and communities. Together, we can build a healthier, safer, and more productive society by promoting positive values, informed choices, and supportive environments.

Join us as we advocate for hope, resilience, and sustainable solutions that empower individuals to live drug-free lives.

Today, as the world marks the World Day Against Child Labour, we stand in solidarity with millions of children whose dreams are threatened by work that robs them of their childhood, education, safety, and future.

Every child deserves a classroom, not a worksite. Every child deserves books, not burdens.

We call on parents and guardians to prioritise the education, protection, and wellbeing of their children. We also urge governments at all levels to strengthen policies, improve access to quality education, support vulnerable families, and enforce laws that protect children from exploitation.

When children are given the opportunity to learn, play, and grow, communities prosper and nations thrive.

Together, let us raise a Red Card to Child Labour and create a future where every child is free to dream, learn, and succeed.

Children, Youth and Women Empowerment Initiative (ChiYoWo)

Today, on World Environment Day, ChiYoWo joins millions around the world in celebrating the beauty, resilience, and importance of our environment.

The Earth is more than our home, it is our shared inheritance and collective responsibility. Every tree planted, every waste reduced, and every sustainable choice made today contributes to a healthier and more prosperous tomorrow.

As an organization committed to empowering children, youth, and women, we believe that environmental stewardship begins with awareness and action. Together, let us be inspired by nature to protect our climate and preserve our future for generations to come.

Happy World Environment Day

… Repositioning Mindsets

ChiYoWo

The Children, Youth and Women Empowerment Initiative (ChiYoWo) is deeply saddened by the abduction of 46 schoolchildren and teachers from the Ahoro-Esinele/Yawota communities in Orire Local Government Area of Oyo State.

For two over weeks, these innocent children and educators have remained away from their families, causing immense pain and anxiety for their loved ones.

Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families during this difficult time. We humbly plead with the relevant authorities at all levels to do all within their power to secure the safe and swift return of these children and teachers.

May they return home safely.

– ChiYoWo

www.chiyowo.org

To commemorate the International Day of the Boy Child, ChiYoWo began its school outreach programme at Halogen Schools, Imota, in the Ikorodu area of Lagos State, Nigeria.

The outreach focused on important topics affecting boys, including substance abuse, mental and physical health, academic excellence, obedience to rules and regulations, and good character development.

The students were excited and grateful for the special celebration. They also pledged to be responsible boys who will grow to become solution to problems and never to be part of the problems in the society.

Happy International Day of Boy Child to all Boy Child all over the World.

As part of activities marking the International Day of the Boy Child, Children, Youth and Women Empowerment Initiative (CHIYOWO) is set to embark on a school outreach programme aimed at mentoring, educating and inspiring boys to become responsible men and future leaders.

The outreach will feature talks on leadership, moral values, career development, mental health and positive social behaviour. It is designed to encourage boys to embrace discipline, purpose and positive living in their various communities.

Through this initiative, CHIYOWO seeks to promote the growth, well-being and empowerment of the boy child for stronger families and communities.

Date: May 7, 2026

The Children, Youth and Women Empowerment Initiative expresses deep concern over the alarming rise in illicit drug use among Nigerian youths, as recently reported by Vanguard on April 11, 2026. The report revealed that over 14.3 million Nigerians consume illicit drugs annually, with a significant proportion being young people, the very strength and future of our nation.

This disturbing trend reflects a growing crisis where thousands of vulnerable youths, mostly driven by economic hardship, peer pressure, and emotional stress, are turning to substances such as tramadol, codeine syrup, cannabis, and other locally improvised drugs for temporary relief. What often begins as an experiment, sometimes as little as a pill mixed with soft drinks, quickly escalates into addiction, destroying lives, families, and communities.

We are particularly troubled by the increasing normalization of substance abuse across urban and rural areas, in schools, motor parks, and even on street corners. The accessibility and affordability of these drugs have made them a dangerous escape route for many young Nigerians.

As an organization committed to youth empowerment and national development, we strongly condemn the rising tide of drug abuse. We believe that a nation cannot progress when its youth, the backbone of its future, are trapped in cycles of addiction and despair.

We therefore extend our plea to Nigerian youths to desist from the use of illicit drugs and harmful substances. True strength lies not in escape, but in resilience, purpose, and self-development. Your future is too valuable to be sacrificed for temporary relief.

We also urge all levels of government to urgently strengthen existing drug control policies and introduce new practical measures where necessary. This includes stricter regulation and enforcement against the illegal sale and distribution of controlled substances, increased surveillance and crackdown on drug trafficking networks, investment in rehabilitation and counseling centers across the country, and nationwide awareness campaigns targeting schools and communities.

Parents, educators, and community leaders must also play an active role in guiding, mentoring, and supporting young people. Early intervention, open communication, and moral guidance are critical in preventing substance abuse.

Nigeria stands at a critical crossroads. The fight against drug abuse must be collective, deliberate, and sustained. We must protect our youths, restore hope, and create opportunities that inspire them to choose purpose over destruction. Collectively, we can build a healthier, safer, and more productive society.

Signed:

Children, Youth and Women (ChiYoWo) Empowerment Initiative

cc. Trustees NB: For more information on our previous activities, visit www.chiyowo.org

PRESS RELEASE

May 7, 2026

The Children, Youth and Women Empowerment Initiative expresses deep concern over the alarming rise in illicit drug use among Nigerian youths, as recently reported by Vanguard on April 11, 2026. The report revealed that over 14.3 million Nigerians consume illicit drugs annually, with a significant proportion being young people, the very strength and future of our nation.

This disturbing trend reflects a growing crisis where thousands of vulnerable youths, mostly driven by economic hardship, peer pressure, and emotional stress, are turning to substances such as tramadol, codeine syrup, cannabis, and other locally improvised drugs for temporary relief. What often begins as an experiment, sometimes as little as a pill mixed with soft drinks, quickly escalates into addiction, destroying lives, families, and communities.

We are particularly troubled by the increasing normalization of substance abuse across urban and rural areas, in schools, motor parks, and even on street corners. The accessibility and affordability of these drugs have made them a dangerous escape route for many young Nigerians.

As an organization committed to youth empowerment and national development, we strongly condemn the rising tide of drug abuse. We believe that a nation cannot progress when its youth, the backbone of its future, are trapped in cycles of addiction and despair.

We therefore extend our plea to Nigerian youths to desist from the use of illicit drugs and harmful substances. True strength lies not in escape, but in resilience, purpose, and self-development. Your future is too valuable to be sacrificed for temporary relief.

We also urge all levels of government to urgently strengthen existing drug control policies and introduce new practical measures where necessary. This includes stricter regulation and enforcement against the illegal sale and distribution of controlled substances, increased surveillance and crackdown on drug trafficking networks, investment in rehabilitation and counseling centers across the country, and nationwide awareness campaigns targeting schools and communities.

Parents, educators, and community leaders must also play an active role in guiding, mentoring, and supporting young people. Early intervention, open communication, and moral guidance are critical in preventing substance abuse.

Nigeria stands at a critical crossroads. The fight against drug abuse must be collective, deliberate, and sustained. We must protect our youths, restore hope, and create opportunities that inspire them to choose purpose over destruction. Collectively, we can build a healthier, safer, and more productive society.

Signed:
Children, Youth and Women (ChiYoWo) Empowerment Initiative

cc. Trustees NB: For more information on our previous activities, visit www.chiyowo.org

Children, Youth and Women Empowerment Initiative (ChiYoWo), through its Mobile Library Initiative, organized a reading session at Ogolonto community in Ikorodu, Lagos State, Nigeria on the 23rd of April, 2026, in commemoration of World Book Day.

The event brought together children who showed great enthusiasm for books and reading. They actively participated in group reading sessions and took turns to share insights from what they read, demonstrating both confidence and understanding.

Beyond reading, the session featured engaging games that created a lively and enjoyable atmosphere for the children. A major highlight of the program was the thoughtful way participants shared lessons learned from the stories.

The Initiative will continues to promote a culture of reading, learning, and creativity among children in local communities.

Today, we are reminded that the future of our planet lies in our hands. The theme, “Our Power, Our Planet,” calls on each of us to take responsibility for protecting the Earth through our daily choices and collective actions.

From preserving our environment to promoting sustainable practices, every effort counts. At Children, Youth and Women Empowerment Initiative (ChiYoWo), we remain committed to empowering communities to act, adapt, and protect our shared home.

Together, let us harness our power to secure a healthier, greener planet for generations to come.

#ChiYoWo
#RepositioningMindsets
#WorldEarthDay2026
#OurPowerOurPlanet

In celebration of International Women’s Day and Mother’s Day, we honour the remarkable women working tirelessly within the NGO space across communities in Ikorodu.

Your dedication to service, compassion for humanity, and commitment to driving meaningful change continue to uplift lives and strengthen communities. You are the backbone of progress, nurturing hope, empowering the vulnerable, and inspiring transformation every day.

Your impact goes far beyond what words can capture through your efforts, futures are being reshaped and opportunities are being created.

In this special women’s month, we celebrate your resilience, your sacrifices, and your unwavering passion for a better society. Thank you for all you do. Keep shining and keep making a difference.

#ChiYoWo

Children Youth and Women Empowerment Initiative joins readers across the globe in celebrating World Book Day. As an organization passionate about education and youth development, we continually encourage children and young people to sharpen their minds and expand their knowledge through reading.

Over the years, we have donated more than 10,000 textbooks to school libraries across the country and established a free community library in Ikorodu to promote access to books and learning.

In line with this year’s theme, “Read Your Way,” we encourage every child to discover their unique reading style and make reading a fun and meaningful habit.

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