The 9th Secondary School Health Enlightenment Programme, organized by the Oasis Muslim Care Foundation (OMCF), was successfully held on Wednesday, October 30, 2024, at Ansarul Islam Secondary School, Ogidi. Focused on raising awareness about the dangers of drug and substance abuse, the event brought together around 250 students from several schools, including An-Nur Secondary School, Al Thabaat Secondary School, Barakat Community Secondary School, Government Day Secondary School (Alore), Mount Carmel College, Al Istiqomoh College, and Banni Community Secondary School.

Mr. Taofik Abdulkareem, representing OMCF Chairman Dr. Abdurrauf Yuusuph, outlined the foundation's commitment to supporting vulnerable Muslims in the community, particularly by covering medical bills for those in need. He also highlighted other impactful initiatives by OMCF, including public health enlightenment lectures, regular visits to inmates in prisons and borstal homes, and virtual health education sessions. Abdulkareem emphasized that the secondary school programme specifically aims to equip young people with early preventive health education. He shared personal reflections on the importance of educating youth about the dangers of drug and substance abuse, underscoring OMCF’s mission to empower students with the knowledge to make informed, healthy life choices.

The keynote address on “Drug and Substance Abuse” was delivered by Dr. Lawal Afeez Folorunsho, a lecturer in the Department of Sociology at Al-Hikmah University, Ilorin. Dr. Folorunsho’s lecture shed light on the devastating effects of drug misuse, particularly how peer pressure can influence substance abuse among young people. He provided practical guidance on how students can resist negative influences and make positive choices. Following the lecture, a lively question-and-answer session allowed students to engage directly with Dr. Folorunsho, further reinforcing the programme's commitment to interactive and impactful learning.

Hon. Abdulraheem Salaudeen, representing the Commissioner for Education Hajia Sa'adatu Modibb Kawu, delivered remarks encouraging parents and teachers to actively monitor their children's friendships and advocate for a supportive approach to guide youths toward healthy choices. Additionally, Mallam Mutiu Arikewuyo, a counsellor, shared professional insights on identifying and supporting students who may be at risk of drug use.