The King Ogunremi Foundation has unveiled a new nationwide initiative aimed at tackling the growing challenge of substance abuse among Nigerian youths. The campaign was launched with the release of a thought-provoking song by Oyekunle Readwon, a former drug user who has turned his painful past into a message of hope and transformation.
Officials of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) graced the unveiling ceremony and praised the foundation for taking decisive steps to address the problem at the community level. Deputy Commander of Narcotics, Titilope Ogunluyi, emphasized that collective effort remains key in the war against drug abuse.
“We all have a part to play in fighting this menace,” she said. “When communities unite and take preventive action, we save more lives. We commend the King Ogunremi Foundation for leading this vital conversation.”
The event also marked the official launch of Whodemborn Record Label, ushering in a new chapter for emerging artists in Nigeria’s music industry. As part of the celebration, the label signed Readwon as its first artiste — a move seen as both symbolic and strategic, blending music with meaningful advocacy.
The unveiling ceremony attracted music enthusiasts, industry stakeholders, and supporters of youth development, all eager to witness the collaboration between creativity and social impact. The record label reaffirmed its commitment to nurturing young talent while using music as a tool for education and reform.
During his address, the Executive Director of the King Ogunremi Foundation expressed deep concern about the alarming rate of substance abuse among Nigerian youths, referencing data from the World Health Organization (WHO). He urged citizens to go beyond depending solely on government interventions.
“Real change starts with personal responsibility,” he noted. “If each of us reaches out to mentor or support just one young person, we can create a ripple effect that transforms entire communities. Let’s help someone to help another — that’s how we change the world.”
In a heartfelt moment, Readwon shared his emotional journey of overcoming addiction and finding purpose through music. His words left many in the audience visibly moved.
“I feel renewed, I feel fulfilled,” he said. “There was a time I was lost in addiction, but today I’m standing here free, grateful, and determined to make a difference. My story is proof that change is possible. If I can overcome it, anyone can. I want my music to be a voice of hope for those still struggling — to let them know they are not alone and recovery is real.”
As the yuletide season approaches — a period often associated with increased drug use — the King Ogunremi Foundation is intensifying awareness efforts, urging Nigerians to join hands in offering support, guidance, and rehabilitation to those battling addiction.
Through this campaign, the foundation hopes to inspire a generation of young Nigerians to choose purpose over pain, strength over substances, and hope over despair.
