A new chapter in the fight against drug abuse and substance misuse was opened in Sango-Otta on Thursday, October 1, 2026, as Praise Baptist Church formally unveiled its rehabilitation centre dedicated to restoring lives, rebuilding hope and helping individuals overcome the challenges of addiction.
The initiative, known as “SheNormal,” is designed to provide a supportive environment for rehabilitation, recovery and reintegration, particularly for individuals whose lives have been affected by substance abuse and other social challenges.
The unveiling attracted church leaders, traditional institutions, community stakeholders, beneficiaries and other guests, who described the project as a timely intervention capable of contributing significantly to the creation of a healthier and safer society.
Among those who commended the initiative was His Majesty, Professor Adeyemi Obalanlege, Ph.D., Lanlege Ekun II, Arole Iganmode and Olofin Apesin Olode, the Olota of Ancient and Paramount Ottaland, Awori Kingdom.
The monarch praised the leadership of Praise Baptist Church, Sango-Otta, under the stewardship of the Branch Pastor, Rev. Olusegun Ayuba, and under the supervision of the Conference Pastor, Rev. Oyeniyi Wale, for demonstrating compassion and commitment to addressing one of the major social challenges confronting families and communities.
The Olota, who has consistently advocated a stronger campaign against drug abuse and substance misuse, described the rehabilitation centre as an investment in humanity, stressing the importance of giving people the opportunity to rebuild their lives after difficult experiences.
In support of the initiative, His Majesty made a substantial donation towards the project, particularly the completion of the Girls’ Hostel facility, as well as the publication of a book focused on the theme of giving individuals a second chance at life.
The gesture further underscored the monarch’s support for programmes that promote responsible living, youth development, family values and community wellbeing.
A particularly moving aspect of the event was the testimonies of beneficiaries of the rehabilitation programme, known as “Ambassadors and Champions.”
The beneficiaries shared personal accounts of their journeys through rehabilitation, recovery and transformation, offering powerful reminders that individuals facing addiction and related challenges can overcome their circumstances when provided with the right support, guidance and opportunities.
Their stories added a human dimension to the unveiling, transforming the event from merely the commissioning of a facility into a celebration of hope and renewed possibilities.
Speaking through the Palace, the Olota expressed pride in associating with the initiative, describing it as a commendable effort directed at building a safer, healthier and more responsible society.
The monarch also used the occasion to appeal to parents and guardians to take greater responsibility for the upbringing of their children.
According to him, the fight against drug abuse must begin from the home, with parents providing children with proper upbringing, moral guidance, positive values and the orientation needed to make responsible choices.
He emphasised that the family remains a critical foundation in preventing drug abuse and other social vices, urging parents not to leave the responsibility of raising their children entirely to schools, religious institutions or society.
The unveiling of the rehabilitation centre therefore represents more than the opening of another facility. It signals a collective commitment to restoration, compassion and the belief that a difficult past does not have to determine a person’s future.
With initiatives such as SheNormal, supported by religious institutions, traditional authorities, families and the wider community, the campaign for a drug-free society gains another platform from which to reach vulnerable individuals and restore hope to families.
For Praise Baptist Church, Sango-Otta, the message is clear: rehabilitation is not merely about treating addiction; it is about restoring dignity, rebuilding confidence and giving people another opportunity to live meaningful lives.
