By RismadarVoice Media
December 13, 2025
In a move to strengthen the fight against, drug abuse among young people in Essien Udim Local Government Area, the member representing Essien Udim State Constituency in Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Prince Ukpong Akpabio II, has declared full support for Essien Udim Unity Forum, praising the group for its commitment towards youth development and non-political community service.
Prince Akpabio, who was Special Guest of Honour at a one-day orientation for secondary school students in Essien Udim Local Government Area, described the initiative as “timely and essential for the future of Essien Udim.”
The seminar, on the theme “Cultism and Drug Abuse Among Students and Youths: The Way Forward ,” held at the Council Secretariat in Afaha Ikot Ebak.
The event was chaired by elder statesman, Dr. Etido Ibekwe, with the member representing Ikot Ekpene Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Dr. Patrick Umo, delivering the keynote address.
Speaking on the rising cases of drug abuse and cult-related activities among youths, Prince Akpabio stressed that although government and community stakeholders have been campaigning seriously against such vices, more deliberate, sustained efforts are needed.
“A lot has been going on across the globe. We have been carrying out campaigns against cultism and drug abuse, but that is not enough. We need to do more. It is a project that involves everybody,” he said.
In what was widely applauded as the highlight of his address, the lawmaker announced that he would fully sponsor a workshop for teachers, explaining that teachers, as the foundation of education, must be equipped with the right knowledge and psychological skills to detect, prevent and address drug abuse and cult tendencies among students.
“The reward of teachers must begin here on earth. We must promote programmes and initiatives that reward teachers considering their critical role in nation building.” Prince Akpabio emphasized.
Drawing from his personal experience during his university days, the lawmaker narrated the dangers he witnessed among peers who got involved in cult activities and drug misuse, warned students that beyond the severe health implications, involvement in such acts could lead to imprisonment and lifelong regret.
Prince Akpabio encouraged the students to make full use of the insights shared by various resource persons, including Mrs. Eunice Thomas, a Board Member of the Federal Character Commission, urging them to become ambassadors of positive change in their schools and communities.
