The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, has advised young people to steer clear of drug abuse, warning that it can cause severe mental health challenges and derail their future.
The minister gave the advice on Monday during a gathering to mark his 71st birthday at his country home in Iragbiji, Boripe Local Government Area of Osun State.
Encouraging youths to build their lives on discipline, hard work and reverence for God, Oyetola said, “To the youths, I urge you to remain focused, dedicated and God-fearing, for it is God who elevated me to the position I hold today. We did not engage in thuggery or drug abuse to reach this height. Please avoid drug abuse, as it will only damage your mental health.”
Oyetola expressed confidence that the All Progressives Congress (APC) would secure victory in the Osun governorship election scheduled for 8 August 2026.
He noted that the APC in the state is growing stronger in unity and urged members to continue fostering peace and cohesion ahead of the polls.
“By God’s special grace, our party will emerge victorious in the forthcoming 2026 gubernatorial election. I thank God for the way things are going with our party and how we have been able to stand in unity. I want to encourage us to continue in that suit and ensure that peace and unity reign in the party, because that is how we can emerge victorious in 2026,” he said.
Reflecting on the sermon delivered at the event by the Chief Imam of Offa, Sheikh Muhyideen Salman, Oyetola also encouraged attendees to be a blessing to others rather than keeping resources to themselves.
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