Federal Government Intensifies Efforts to Combat Social Vices in Educational Institutions

By Osaiyekemwen Confidence

In a decisive move to address the rising concerns over cultism, examination malpractice, drug abuse, and other social vices within Nigerian educational settings, the Federal Government has pledged to ramp up its campaign efforts. These initiatives target students across all levels of education, aiming to safeguard their well-being and ensure academic integrity.

Honourable Sunday Asefon, Senior Special Assistant to the President on Student Engagement, conveyed the administration’s deep concerns regarding the proliferation of harmful behaviors among students, including drug abuse, cultism, cybercrime, sexual harassment, and academic dishonesty. These vices, Asefon highlighted, not only threaten the academic success of students but also the smooth operation of educational institutions nationwide.

During the launch of the Special Committee on Campaign Against Social Vices in Secondary and Tertiary Institutions in Nigeria in Abuja, led by the Minister of State for Education, Dr. Yusuf Sununu, Asefon underscored the government’s commitment under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s leadership to combat these challenges head-on.

“The establishment of this committee marks a critical step in our nation’s effort to eliminate the shadow these vices cast over our educational environment, impeding the development of future leaders,” Asefon stated.

He tasked the committee with the development and execution of extensive awareness campaigns designed to educate students about the perils of social vices and to cultivate a culture of positive values and academic integrity.

The committee is expected to work closely with educational institutions to enhance security measures and promote an environment conducive to both academic excellence and personal development.

Emphasizing the government’s support for students, Asefon encouraged them to engage with the committee’s programs and seek assistance when needed, assuring them of a brighter future free from the influence of social vices.

The Minister of State for Education, Dr. Yusuf Sununu, upon inaugurating the committee, stressed its role in fostering a generation of ethical, responsible, and successful young Nigerians. The committee, chaired by Major-General Suleiman Kazure (Rtd), former Director-General of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) and Deputy Vice-Chancellor of the Nigerian Army University (BIU), is tasked with implementing a comprehensive strategy to increase awareness, encourage positive behaviors, and support students in need.

Highlighting the timely formation of the committee amid the challenges posed by the abuse of social media and peer pressure, Sununu remarked on the detrimental effects of these influences on societal values and national peace. He reaffirmed the government’s dedication to repositioning the education sector, acknowledging that these efforts could be undermined by unchecked social vices within institutions.

With this initiative, the Federal Government signals its determination to address and eradicate the factors undermining the educational and moral fabric of Nigerian society, paving the way for a more disciplined and principled student community.