On Valentine’s Day, renowned musician-turned-social commentator Randawest, through his No To Drugs Initiative (NTDI), organized a powerful one-million-man walk across the streets of Ikeja, Lagos. Supported by the Nigerian Police and Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), this march aimed to raise awareness and combat the pervasive issue of drug abuse in society.
Randawest, whose real name is Omoruyi Randa Osas, opened up during an exclusive interview about his motivation for the campaign, which stems from the tragic experience of losing his uncle, the iconic musician Majek Fashek, to drug abuse. Inspired by the loss, Randawest founded NTDI in 2014, hoping to prevent other young lives from being similarly affected.
The walk’s main objective was to educate the youth about the dangers of drug abuse through firsthand stories and impactful campaigns. Randawest emphasized the role of popular culture, particularly musicians, in influencing youth behavior. He called out the negative portrayal of drugs in music videos and social media, urging artists to be more responsible with their influence.
NTDI has built significant partnerships with agencies such as the NDLEA, the police, and LASTMA, ensuring the campaign’s reach and effectiveness. Despite challenges in securing financial backing, Randawest’s unwavering passion for the cause keeps the initiative going. His vision is to expand this campaign nationwide, reaching all 36 states in Nigeria and even spreading awareness across Africa.
For those struggling with addiction, Randawest advocates for seeking help from rehabilitation centers, with NTDI regularly partnering with such institutions to support recovery. He also stressed the importance of family and community involvement in spreading awareness and offering support to those affected by drugs.
Looking forward, NTDI plans to continue its efforts regardless of financial obstacles, relying on the power of passion and grassroots mobilization. Randawest’s message is clear: the fight against drug abuse is everyone’s responsibility, and as a society, we must all step up to protect future generations from its devastating effects.
To join the movement or access resources, individuals can visit NTDI’s website www.notodrugsinitiative.org or follow their campaign videos on YouTube. Through education, outreach, and partnership, Randawest’s mission is not just to raise awareness but to create lasting change in the battle against drug abuse.
