Nigerians have launched a campaign against drugs and prostitution South Africa, a measure aimed at maintaining the good image of Nigeria.
The campaign was launched in Kimberly, Northern Cape Province of South Africa by the members of Nigeria Union in that country.
The President of the union, Mr Ikechukwu Anyene, said that it was disheartening that drug abuse and prostitution were no longer challenges involving only adults.
The President of the union, Mr Ikechukwu Anyene, said that it was disheartening that drug abuse and prostitution were no longer challenges involving only adults.
“ It is pathetic to watch children in school uniforms smoking, sniffing and selling narcotics and then indulging in prostitution,” he said.
Anyene said that the union would raise awareness on the dangers of drug abuse, prostitution and human trafficking through rallies in all chapters in South Africa.
He stated that the union would work with various rehabilitation centres in the country to assist victims.
Nigeria`s Consul General in South Africa, Amb. Uche Ajuku-Okeke, who was the guest of honour at the launch commended members of the Nigeria Union for the campaign.
Ajulu-Okeke, who was represented by Mr Ibrahim Nayaya, the Counsellor in charge of Information and Culture, said many Nigerians were doing well in South Africa while a few were on the streets struggling to survive.
Ajulu-Okeke said that the consulate has a responsibility to cater for the welfare of Nigerians in South Africa.
“ I am most delighted that the union has taken action by launching this campaign against prostitution and drugs which will help eliminate social vices among our citizens,” she said.
The Northern Cape Commissioner of Police, Lt.-Gen Shivuri Risimati, said the campaign would assist in minimising drug abuse and prostitution in the country.
He said the police were happy with the move made by the union and gave an assurance that the force would support the campaign.
Mrs Cherlyn Tshabangu, the Director of Asilweni Cleaning Streets, a non-governmental organisation, said South Africa has the highest number of people trafficked as slaves from other African countries.
She also said that there was need to stop young people from abusing drugs and engaging in prostitution. (NAN).
