Comrade Rufus Obafemi, a Stalwart of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has charged students of Ogidi Community to shun drug abuse and all forms of social vices, stressing that the administration of Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Usman Ahmed Ododo, maintains a zero-tolerance stance against activities capable of undermining the future of young people in the state.
He made the call during the Educational Outreach and Leadership Program Summit organized by the Federation of Ogidi Students Union (FOSU) at his country home in Ogidi over the weekend.
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The summit, themed “Honoring Legacy, Inspiring Minds, and Building a Drug-Free Future for Ogidi Students,” brought together students from various educational levels to engage in discussions on education, leadership development, and the dangers associated with drug abuse and other social vices.
Speaking at the event, Comrade Rufus emphasized the need for students to remain focused on their academic pursuits and personal development, warning that drug abuse destroys concentration, damages health, and robs young people of future opportunities.
He urged the students to reject all forms of anti-social behavior, including cultism, examination malpractice, and substance abuse, while encouraging them to cultivate discipline, integrity, and a strong commitment to excellence.
“Education remains the most powerful tool for transforming lives and communities. I encourage every student to set clear academic and life goals, avoid negative peer influence, and remain committed to the pursuit of knowledge and self-development,” he said.
The summit also served as a platform to honor the legacies of two distinguished sons and daughters of Ogidi Community—Late Barrister Femi Oloruntoba and Late Mrs. Oyinade Thomas—whose contributions to community development and societal progress continue to inspire younger generations.
Comrade Rufus noted that leadership begins with personal discipline and service to humanity, urging students to uphold the values and legacies left behind by the community’s forebears.
The program featured keynote presentations, panel discussions, and interactive sessions aimed at equipping students with the knowledge and skills required to become responsible leaders and positive agents of change.
Addressing the executive members of FOSU, Comrade Rufus commended the association for organizing the impactful initiative and encouraged them to sustain the program by making it an annual event capable of reaching more students across all educational levels.
He further advised the student body to establish mentorship platforms that would pair successful Ogidi indigenes with students for continuous guidance, career development, and leadership support.
He also urged the association to extend its anti-drug campaigns beyond the summit through school-based clubs, social media advocacy, and strategic partnerships involving parents, traditional rulers, and old students’ associations to ensure broader impact and sustainable funding.
Speaking on the commitment of the Kogi State Government to youth development, Comrade Rufus stated that Governor Usman Ahmed Ododo’s administration remains committed to revitalizing the education sector and creating opportunities for students through various educational interventions.
According to him, the governor’s free education and free examination policies demonstrate a clear commitment to improving access to quality education and empowering the next generation of leaders.
He therefore encouraged students to take full advantage of the opportunities provided by the government and channel their energies toward productive and meaningful endeavors.
Describing the summit as timely and impactful, Comrade Rufus said the engagement reaffirmed the importance of investing in the educational and moral development of young people.
“Investing in Ogidi students is investing in the future of our community. I commend FOSU for this laudable initiative and pledge my continued support for programs that promote education, discipline, leadership, and community development,” he stated.
As part of his support for the students’ body, Comrade Rufus also made a financial donation towards the launch of FOSU’s exercise book distribution project, further demonstrating his commitment to advancing educational development in Ogidi Community.
The summit concluded with renewed calls for collective efforts to build a drug-free, disciplined, and academically driven generation capable of leading Ogidi Community and Kogi State towards a brighter future.
