By Tolulope Oguntimehin 

As concerns grow over the increasing number of Nigerian youths turning to illicit drugs, stakeholders are calling for greater engagement through sports as a means of intervention. At the Streetball for a Cause basketball event in Abuja, organizers and participants highlighted the transformative power of sports in shaping young lives, steering them away from destructive habits, and providing an avenue for personal and community development.

The event, held at the Karu Hilltop Basketball Court, was not just about competition; it was a rallying call to address the dual issues of youth drug abuse and the neglect of sports facilities that could otherwise serve as safe spaces for engagement. Convener Raji Kolawole emphasized the urgent need to channel young energy into productive ventures like sports.

"There has been a worrying rise in drug abuse among youths, and we believe sports can be a panacea. It engages both the body and mind, offering an alternative to negative influences. Beyond that, this court has been underutilized, and we saw an opportunity to not only raise awareness about drug abuse but also mobilize support for its renovation. A well-maintained court encourages more participation and keeps young people active in a meaningful way," Kolawole stated.

The event was a testament to the deep passion for basketball within the Karu community. From the early morning aerobics session to the evening showdown between Team Hoodlounge and Karu Hilton Warriors, the turnout underscored the impact sports can have when given the right attention and resources.

For Jennifer Oyegah, a basketball player and advocate for youth empowerment, the initiative was deeply personal. "Growing up in Port Harcourt was incredibly challenging for me, but basketball became my escape and my opportunity for a better life. It not only helped me improve my standard of living but also kept me away from social vices that could have derailed my future. That’s why I fully support this initiative—it is timely, necessary, and has the power to change lives," she said.

Choking Leo, a basketball enthusiast and co-convener of the initiative, stressed that the event was about more than just playing the game. It was about creating an avenue for engagement, rebuilding community infrastructure, and showing young people a better path. "When we looked at the state of the Karu Hilltop Basketball Court, we knew something had to be done. The youth need a space where they can play, grow, and connect. The response today has been overwhelming—you should have seen the number of people who showed up, first for the aerobics session and then for the basketball game. It proves the passion people have for this sport and reinforces our belief that we can make a real impact," he said.

The Streetball for a Cause initiative successfully brought together young athletes, basketball lovers, and community stakeholders for a day of sports, awareness, and fundraising. While Team Hoodlounge and Karu Hilton Warriors battled it out on the court, the real victory lay in the message being sent—that sports can be a lifeline, a means of transformation, and a tool for positive societal change.

At its core, the event aimed to achieve three key objectives: raise awareness about the dangers of drug abuse, generate funds for the court’s renovation, and promote healthier lifestyles through sports. With the passion and commitment demonstrated by both organizers and participants, Streetball for a Cause is proving to be more than just a game—it’s a movement towards a better future.