PAYNESVILLE – The TUMA Foundation has renewed its call for young people to reject illicit drugs, using this year’s observance of the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking to educate students on the devastating consequences of substance abuse.
The awareness program, held on June 26, 2026, at Victory Center International School in Paynesville, brought together scores of students and young people from diverse communities to learn about the dangers of narcotics and pledge to serve as anti-drug ambassadors in their respective neighborhoods.
The youth-driven organization, which promotes youth empowerment, community sanitation, and civic engagement across Paynesville and other parts of Montserrado County, said the campaign is intended to support the Liberian government’s efforts to combat the country’s growing drug crisis.
Delivering the keynote address, teen speaker Alexis G. Flomo described drug abuse as “a silent thief” that destroys lives and families.
“Drug abuse is a silent thief that steals dreams, destroys families, and shatters lives. It may begin as curiosity, but it often ends in pain, regret, and loss,” Flomo said. “Drugs promise pleasure, but deliver pain.”
He urged young people to resist peer pressure and pursue meaningful goals instead of turning to narcotics.
“No drug can give what true purpose can bring, and no substance can make your future sing. Real strength is found in saying ‘no’ to drugs,” he added.
The International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, observed annually on June 26, was established by the United Nations to raise global awareness about the dangers of drug abuse, combat illicit drug trafficking, and promote prevention and treatment for substance use disorders.
The Foundation noted that Liberia continues to grapple with widespread substance abuse, particularly among young people, years after the end of the country’s civil conflict. It said drug addiction has contributed to school dropouts, family breakdowns, homelessness, and rising criminal activities, including theft, burglary, prostitution, and armed robbery.
The anti-drug campaign comes as the Liberian government intensifies efforts to combat narcotics trafficking, including ongoing investigations into the country’s high-profile US$19 million cocaine seizure, while pledging a nationwide crackdown on drug dealers.
Program Officer Lawrence Dayougar encouraged students to reject drugs and other harmful substances, warning that early exposure often begins with seemingly harmless errands.
“We are working with students to encourage them to say ‘no’ to drugs and substance abuse,” Dayougar said. “If someone sends you to buy liquor, cigarettes, or drugs, have the courage to refuse.”
He warned that participating in such activities could eventually lead to addiction and derail students’ educational ambitions.
Adding a personal perspective, former drug user and anti-drug advocate Ambassador Anthony J. Nimley recounted how peer pressure led him into addiction, costing him 12 years of his life.
“I was rejected by my parents and society for 12 years. People called me a ‘zogo’ because of drugs,” Nimley told the students. “It all started in the classroom with my friends. Peer pressure led me into drug abuse.”
Nimley urged the students to take advantage of educational programs such as those organized by the TUMA Foundation, saying they provide the guidance and awareness he never received as a youth.
The Foundation pledged to continue expanding its anti-drug awareness campaigns in schools and communities as part of its contribution to the national fight against narcotics and substance abuse.
