*As experts reveals how to find freedom from addictions
By Achadu Gabriel, Kaduna
In a remarkable display of unity and purpose, the ‘Julius Siblings – Chelsea Damilola, Vanessa Adeshola and Donald Oluwatosin, originally from Kogi State, Nigeria, has led dual events targeting the prevention of tobacco use among youths.
The events, held at the Federal Cooperative Cooperative Kaduna (FCCK), and at Master’s Ministry International throughout Thursday was an initiative perfectly aligned with the World Health Organization’s (WHO) 2024, theme to protect children from the dangers of tobacco.
At the Federal Cooperative college, Kaduna, the siblings focused on sensitizing both outgoing and incoming students about the dangers of tobacco addiction.
Addressing the students and faculty at the Federal Cooperative College, the National Director of Bible-Based Prevention and Healing for Children and Teens Substance Abuse in Nigeria, Vanessa Adeshola Julius, delved deeper into the intricacies of addiction and the particular dangers of tobacco.
She emphasized the deceptive nature of addiction which often begins as a seemingly harmless habit but rapidly spirals into a life-dominating force.
Vanessa explained that addiction filled a void created by various emotional and psychological factors, such as low self-esteem, unmet emotional needs, a lack of fulfillment in life, or trauma.
She pointed out that individuals often turn to substances like tobacco to fill this void, seeking temporary pleasure or escape.
However, she warned that this pleasure is fleeting and ultimately fails to address the underlying issues, leading to a vicious cycle of increasing dependency.
The national director highlighted the importance of understanding the progression of addiction, where initial substances no longer provide the same level of satisfaction, pushing individuals towards more dangerous behaviours.
Expanding on the specific dangers of tobacco, Vanessa discussed its active ingredient, citing nicotine, and its harmful effects on the body, including increased risks of cancer, stroke, and other severe health issues.
She underlined the importance of recognising tobacco as a gateway to other addictions, necessitating early intervention and education to prevent its use.
Vanessa’s message also included a powerful spiritual dimension, emphasizing that addictions, like tobacco, can take the place of God in one’s life, offering false comfort and control.
She urged the audience to understand that addiction crushes the soul, affecting one’s will, intellect, memory, and emotions, and ultimately hindering personal growth and prosperity.
Vanessa, the expert offered a hopeful message, outlining a path to overcoming addiction through spiritual and practical means.
She also spoke about the necessity of deliverance from unclean spirits, the healing of the mind and emotions, and the renewal of thought patterns through the Word of God.
She emphasized that true freedom from addiction is found in a relationship with God and adherence to His teachings, offering a way to not only escape addiction but to thrive in life.
The second event at Master’s Ministry International, was a workshop that brought together parents, Sunday school teachers, and church leaders, as the sessions led by the Julius siblings providing a Biblical holistic approach to prevention.
Chelsea Damilola Julius, president of the Teenagers Tobacco Abstinence Club (science base), highlighted the importance of awareness and urged the church community to protect children from smoking influences.
Vanessa’s session was deeply rooted in scripture, drawing from various verses to illustrate the need for guiding children wisely in the face of societal dangers like smoking.
The events were well-received, with educators, parents, and religious leaders, acknowledged the significance of the initiative. Feedback from participants, including teachers and students, underscored the demand for more such educational programs.
Mr. Bamudele Caleb Bolujoko, President of the Fellowship of Christian Students, at the FCCK, praised the biblical approach of the TAC.
Similarly, Mr. Unyung Savior Ushe, a lecturer at the college, emphasized the program’s relevance in today’s society, where smoking and substance abuse are often seen as escape routes from personal challenges.
The workshops concluded with a strong commitment from participants and organizers to continue spreading awareness and educating the youth.
Mr. Cephas Nomgyyo, the Youth Pastor of Master’s Ministry International, pledged support for the expansion of these vital initiatives, recognizing the crucial role of religious communities in tackling the issue of tobacco addiction among young people. #
Pix: Siblings champion faith -based war against smoking with students at FCCK, Kaduna Thursday.
