The Young Entrepreneurs Summit Africa (YESA) has reaffirmed its commitment to building a drug-free and empowered generation of Nigerian youths through the successful conclusion of the Sensitization Against Drug Abuse (SADA) Cup, held in Abuja.
Speaking at the closing ceremony, the Chief Executive Officer and Lead strategic young Entrepreneurs Summit Africa(YESA) Frank Nwike described the tournament as more than just a football competition, but a transformative platform designed to combat drug abuse, crime, and social decay among young people.
“The SADA Cup was never just about who scored the most goals; it was about scoring victories against drug abuse, crime, and social decay in our communities,” the CEO said.
According to Frank, the 3-day event attracted over 3,000 young people and featured 300 players from different teams. Through the partnership of key health and development agencies, including the FCT Agency for the Control of AIDS and the Institute of Human Virology Nigeria (IHVN), more than 800 youths were tested for HIV/AIDS and other STDs.
In a show of strong health advocacy, the AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF) and the FCT Agency for the Control of AIDS distributed over 20,000 condoms and lubricants, promoting safe practices among participants.
One of the highlights of the event was the enrolment of 73 young drug users into YESA’s Anti-Drug Abuse Ambassadors Mentorship (ADAAM) Program, a flagship initiative that focuses on rehabilitation, mentorship, and empowerment through skill acquisition and entrepreneurship.
Since its launch in 2023, the ADAAM program has rehabilitated and mentored 104 youths across four states in Nigeria. During the ceremony, YESA, in partnership with PocketMoni by eTranzact, empowered five ADAAM beneficiaries by setting them up as POS merchants, symbolizing the organization’s focus on sustainable economic empowerment.
The CEO expressed gratitude to all partners, including the UNODC, Federal Ministry of Youth Development (FMYD), EFCC, NDLEA, and NACA, for their continued support in advancing youth development and social reorientation.
“Let this not be the end. Let it be the beginning of a movement a stronger collaboration between communities, institutions, and agencies,” he urged.
He also charged Nigerian youths to uphold the values of discipline, integrity, and purpose beyond the pitch, reminding them that “the real victory is a drug-free generation, empowered to lead Nigeria forward.”
As the champions lifted their trophy and received their prize money, the event closed with renewed energy and commitment to a shared vision — a safer, stronger, and brighter Nigeria.
