In an effort to combat the rising issue of drug misuse among the youth in Nkwen, the Nkwen Youth Presidents Council, led by their General President Melvin Asanji, have launched the inaugural Under-15 Football Tournament. Organized under the theme "celebrating a Nkwen Youth free of drug abuse," he initiative aims to promote healthy lifestyles and create awareness around the dangers of drug abuse ahead of the new school year.
Talking to Hilltopvoices Newspaper, Asanji expressed concern over the growing impact of drug abuse, which has led to declining academic performance, increased violence, and poor health among the youth. By promoting sports, the tournament aims to provide a positive alternative and raise awareness about the dangers of drug use ahead of the new school year.
Melvin Asanji added that rapid urban development in Nkwen has contributed to increasing drug misuse among young people.
The tournament, which began with seven teams split into two pools, has now reached the semi-finals stage. On Wednesday, August 21, the semi-final fixtures will see Mbelem face off against Ntenjung, while Nibung takes on Waterfall FC.
The teams represent various quarters in Nkwen, and the competition has been embraced by the community despite the challenges posed by ongoing insecurity due to the armed conflict in the region. Financing the tournament has also been a hurdle, with Asanji personally covering over 50% of the slightly over 1 million FCFA required to run the event and provide prizes worthy of the competition.
Asanji is calling on development-oriented Nkwen sons and daughters, as well as supporters beyond the community, to join hands with the Nkwen youth to back the tournament and help curb the spread of drug consumption among the younger generation.