Rector Pascal, founder and govt director of the We Are Not Thugs Initiative and the Rector Pascal Foundation, has referred to as for higher help for younger folks battling substance use, stressing the significance of rehabilitation, dignity and second possibilities.
He made the decision throughout a session titled “Starting Again: The Power of Second Chances” on the sixth version of the DARE Conference, held in Abuja on October 16 and 17, 2026.
The convention, organised by YouthHubAfrica below the theme “Youth Power as a Pathway to Africa’s Future”, introduced collectively greater than 1,000 younger Africans, each in particular person and nearly, to debate well being, governance, schooling, entrepreneurship, and youth participation in Africa’s growth.
During his session on the opening day, Pascal drew on his grassroots work with weak communities in Lagos, together with Shitta, Surulere and Mushin, to spotlight the challenges confronted by younger folks scuffling with substance use.
Through the We Are Not Thugs Initiative, he advocates an method that prioritises help, restoration and dignity over stigmatisation and judgment.
The initiative’s philosophy is that younger folks coping with dependancy shouldn’t be outlined by their struggles however ought to have entry to the help wanted to deal with underlying points, rebuild their lives and reintegrate into society.
Pascal additionally shared insights from restoration experiences, neighborhood medical outreaches, aftercare help and storytelling campaigns, illustrating how sustained help may also help younger folks regain stability and objective.
His session shaped a part of wider discussions on the convention on methods to strengthen youth participation in Africa’s growth. The occasion featured panel discussions, interactive classes, performances and conversations involving well being professionals, policymakers, younger advocates and artists.
The convention centered on the function of younger folks in addressing challenges throughout key sectors and figuring out alternatives to contribute to the continent’s future.
Pascal’s participation introduced consideration to the place of psychological well being help, rehabilitation and restoration in youth growth, notably for younger folks affected by substance use and social stigma.
YouthHubAfrica organises the DARE Conference to supply a platform for younger Africans to alternate concepts and focus on sensible approaches to growth throughout the continent.
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