An NGO, the Vanguard Against Drug Abuse (VGADA) and renowned Afropop musician, Daud Suleiman popularly known as 'Hi-Speed' have agreed to work together to curb the menace of substance abuse among young people across the country. This was one of the agreements reached at a meeting when the music icon paid a courtesy visit to the Executive Director of VGADA, Dr Hope Omeiza in Abuja. Speaking, Omeiza said that the scourge of drug abuse had continued to destroy lives, youths, families and communities among others. He said that the partnership aimed to counter the glamorisation of drug use prevalent in social media and mainstream platforms. This, he said, where celebrities often promoted substance abuse as a means to creative inspiration. He, however, emphasised the importance of engaging critical stakeholders and global ambassadors to address this pressing issue. He added that Hi-Speed, as a global youth icon, had demonstrated his commitment to the anti-drug abuse campaign through his music and community o utreach programs. He also added that in 2022, his brand organised a massive concert in North Central states, specifically targeting COVID-19- affected areas, to spread awareness about the dangers of drug abuse. 'Most of our activities revolve around young people, who are disproportionately affected by drug abuse. To change the narrative, we must explore innovative prevention avenues. 'Hi-Speed's influence is crucial in showcasing that success can be achieved without substance abuse. He's an exemplary role model, proving that one can rise to stardom without indulging in drugs or alcohol. See also Kulikuli entertainment boss calls for promotion of Afrobeat music 'He is one person I know personally and I can tell you that even down to alcohol, he is someone who does not take any of these substances. 'And we believe that by collaborating with Hi-Speed, VGADA seeks to inspire young people to make informed choices and shun drug abuse. 'We hope that Hi-Speed's message will resonate with the youth and encourag e them to emulate his positive example,' Omeiza concluded. Earlier, Hi-Speed expressed concern over the growing trend of drug abuse among young people and pledged to leverage his music and influence to combat the menace. He stressed that as role models, entertainers have a responsibility to promote positive values and discourage harmful behaviours. The musician, however, pledged to utilise his music, social media, and concerts to sensitise his fans about the dangers of drug abuse. Hi-Speed, with almost two decades of experience in the music industry, emphasised that success could be achieved without indulging in illicit substances. 'I've been in this industry since 2007 doing my music without engaging in drug abuse. I've been doing fine, and my fans should know that they can also achieve their goals without drugs. 'Most of our fans see us as mentors and emulate what we do on screen. It's time for us to use our platforms to fight against drug abuse and promote healthy lifestyles. 'I'll use my platforms to tell my fans that they can achieve their dreams without drugs. I want to inspire them to make positive choices. 'As youth, you can be whatever you want to be without doing drugs, you can be whoever you want to be without involving in illicit drugs, 'he advised. Source: News Agency of Nigeria