By correspondent in Ilorin.
The Zero Tolerance for Social Immorality Initiative (ZETSI) Africa has reiterated its commitment to addressing cultism, drug abuse, and other social vices, during its inaugural annual convention held in Ilorin, Kwara State.
The event took place at the NBA Conference Hall of the State High Court in Ilorin, where ZETSI Africa Chairperson, Ambassador Razak Jeje, underscored the urgent need for a collective response to these pressing societal issues.
“This gathering is more than just a convention; it is a call to action,” Jeje said. “The rise in cultism and drug abuse has led to needless deaths and unrest. We cannot afford to stay silent as our youth continue to fall prey to these destructive forces.”
Themed “Harmony in the Heartland: Promoting Peace and Rejecting Cultism and Drug Abuse in Kwara State,” the event drew together a diverse group of stakeholders, including parents, religious leaders, security agencies, educators, and youth representatives. Discussions focused on practical solutions to combat social vices and promote moral values among young people.
In a bid to sustain its advocacy, ZETSI Africa launched the first edition of Moral Compass magazine, designed to inspire positive role models and uphold ethical values among Nigerian youth.
“We understand the power of media in shaping attitudes,” Jeje said. “Moral Compass will serve as a platform to showcase success stories and advocate for moral integrity in society.”
The event also recognized individuals who have made outstanding contributions to social reform and moral advocacy.
In addition, Jeje introduced newly appointed Administrative Volunteers who will play a key role in expanding ZETSI Africa’s initiatives in Kwara State’s campuses and communities. The new team includes:
Bamigboye Olalekan – State Coordinator
Aliyu Aneefah Gold – Secretary
Ahmed Adebowale – Director of Program and Strategy
Adeyemi Daniel – Head of Media and Graphics Design
Shuaib Habeeb – Head of Planning and Partnership
Moshood Ibrahim – Director of Campus Affairs
Mohammed Laufe – Publicity Secretary and Head of Community Affairs
Jeje congratulated the new team, urging them to take immediate action in tackling social vices. “Your work starts now, and we expect significant contributions to curbing these societal issues,” he emphasized.
Looking forward, ZETSI Africa revealed plans to extend its convention to all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) as part of its 2025 agenda.
“Starting from Kwara, the State of Harmony, we will strategically expand our efforts nationwide,” Jeje stated, calling on stakeholders from other states to prepare for engagement.
He also highlighted the continued need to combat corruption, examination malpractice, cybercrime, and prostitution—issues that he believes pose significant threats to Nigeria’s future.
“As an organization, we stand against corruption that has paralyzed the effectiveness of every sector in Nigeria,” Jeje declared. “We must also confront prostitution and examination malpractice to ensure a sustainable future for our youth.”
The convention closed with a renewed commitment from all attendees to intensify advocacy and implement practical solutions in the fight against social vices, aiming to create a safer and more morally conscious society.
Edited by Dada Ahmed.
