The University of Cross River State has pledged full support for an anti-drug abuse campaign spearheaded by the National Association of Nigerian Students, in a move that signals a renewed crackdown on substance abuse across campuses in Cross River State.
The commitment was made during a strategic meeting held on April 2, 2026, between the university’s management and the Joint Campus Council (JCC) leadership of NANS, aimed at strengthening collaboration ahead of the launch of the Drug-Free Campus Movement.
Speaking at the meeting, the Vice Chancellor of UNICROSS, Francisca Bassey, reaffirmed her administration’s commitment to student welfare and tackling substance abuse across the institution’s campuses.
She described the campaign as timely and critical, assuring the student leadership of the university’s readiness to support its successful implementation.
“This campaign is both timely and necessary, and we are fully committed to supporting its successful implementation across our campuses,” she said.
Prof. Bassey emphasised that the health and well-being of students remain a top priority, highlighting ongoing improvements at the university’s Medical Centre.
“The welfare, health, and safety of our students remain paramount to this administration. We are continuously strengthening our Medical Centre to better respond to the needs of our students,” she added.
She also pledged logistical support to facilitate the campaign activities.
“We will provide the necessary support, including transportation and other logistics, to ensure the success of this initiative,” the Vice Chancellor assured.
Earlier, the NANS JCC Chairman, Victor Asuquo, said the engagement was part of efforts to deepen collaboration with the university ahead of the campaign rollout.
According to him, the initiative will officially commence on April 10, 2026, with a street rally from Mary Slessor Roundabout to Millennium Park.
He explained that the campaign would feature the selection of 16 student ambassadors,one from each campus, to drive advocacy and connect affected students with support services.
Asuquo further disclosed that NANS is exploring collaboration with the Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital to provide affordable rehabilitation services for students.
He added that the association is also seeking partnerships with key agencies, including the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, the Ministry of Health, and the National Orientation Agency, to ensure a coordinated and impactful campaign.
The NANS leader noted that UNICROSS, with its large student population and multi-campus structure, occupies a strategic position in driving awareness and achieving meaningful impact.
Kingsley Agim
