Abstain from drug abuse, Odunola urges UNILORIN students
By Bashir Dawodu
The Director of the University Health Services, University of Ilorin, Dr Rasheed Odunola, has advised students of the University to abstain from drug abuse, warning that it can significantly reduce their life expectancy and negatively affect their overall well-being.
Dr Odunola gave this advice penultimate Thursday (June 18, 2026)while delivering a lecture at the 2026 Health Week organised by the National Association of Zoology Students (NAZS) at the New Science Lecture Theatre I (NSLT I).
The event, themed “Total Wellness: Mind, Body and Environment,” focused on promoting healthy lifestyles and mental well-being of students.
Dr Odunola explained that drug abuse goes beyond the consumption of illicit substances such as cannabis, saying that it includes the misuse of prescribed medication, self-medication,and overdose of drugs.
He also warned against smoking, describing it as harmful to human health. He noted that smoking can damage vital organs such as the kidneys, liver, and lungs, adding that smokers are at a higher risk of premature death.
The seasoned medical practitioner also urged students to develop effective study habits and avoid the use of stimulants or unprescribed drugs to stay awake while reading, stressing that such practices could adversely affect their physical, emotional, and mental well-being.
Dr Odunola also encouraged students to maintain a healthy lifestyle through regular exercises, routine medical check-ups, good personal hygiene, balanced nutrition, and adequate sleep of at least six to seven hours daily to promote emotional stability and overall wellness.
Also speaking at the event, a Deputy Director at the Counselling and Human Development Centre, University of Ilorin, Dr Aminullahi Alawaye, urged students to make use of the counselling services offered by the University whenever they encounter challenges.
He emphasised the importance of resilience, emotional control, stress management, and seeking support when necessary.
“Keep going, do not give up, and always be ready to make progress,” he advised.
Dr Alawaye encouraged students to develop problem solving skills, remain optimistic, focus on their academic pursuits and avoid unnecessary anxiety. He reminded them that failure is not the end of the road, noting that many successful individuals experienced setbacks before achieving greatness.
In her remarks, the Head of the Department of Zoology, Dr Olutomi A. Adeyemi-Ale, commended the guest speakers for honouring the Association’s invitation and contributing to the success of the programme.
