The Presidency has reaffirmed its support for the Special Committee on Campaign Against Social Vices in Secondary and Tertiary Institutions, describing its mandate as critical to Nigeria’s future. Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, made this assurance during a meeting with committee members led by Professor Jerry Ugokwe at the State House, Abuja.

Gbajabiamila expressed confidence in the committee’s integrity and capacity, noting that rising social vices among youths constitute a growing national concern. He stressed that tackling the menace requires a whole-of-society approach involving parents, teachers, religious leaders, communities, and relevant institutions.

“The challenge has assumed near-pandemic proportions globally. It takes a community to raise a child, it’s not just about the parents anymore, it’s about the clergy, your neighbour, the teachers, so we all stand in locus parentis for the children,” he said.

The Chief of Staff highlighted the strong link between law and morality, describing moral re-orientation as fundamental to addressing social vices in schools and campuses. He announced a ₦50 million seed donation to support the committee’s work and assured members of the Federal Government’s readiness to collaborate.

Committee Chairman Professor Jerry Ugokwe expressed appreciation for the audience and vision behind the committee’s establishment. He outlined the committee’s mandate, including identifying and addressing social vices, promoting discipline, and collaborating with authorities to combat cultism, drug abuse, and related offences.

The committee has already held major engagements in Edo and Kwara States and plans a grand national launch of the campaign. The Presidency’s support is expected to boost the committee’s efforts in promoting moral values and reducing social vices among Nigerian students.