Sports, skills and a brighter future: Kaduna’s innovative LULU programme

BY MICHAEL ISAAC 

In the vibrant heart of Kaduna state, where challenges meet resilience, two remarkable young individuals, Toheeb and Gideon, have emerged as beacons of hope and transformation. Their journeys from vulnerability to empowerment encapsulate the profound impact of the Line Up Live Up (LULU) programme, a pioneering initiative under the Kaduna Children Amplified Prevention Services (Kd-CHAMPS). Launched on August 28, 2024, the programme stands as a testament to the visionary leadership of His Excellency, Senator Uba Sani, and the unwavering commitment of the Kaduna State Bureau for Substance Abuse Prevention and Treatment (KADBUSA).

The LULU initiative: A proactive solution

Addressing the menace of substance abuse requires more than reactive measures; it demands proactive, sustainable strategies. The LULU programme, developed by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), is an evidence-based prevention initiative that uses sports as a conduit for equipping adolescents with essential life and social skills. By integrating sports into its curriculum, the programme fosters resilience, encourages informed decision-making, and helps participants avoid risky behaviours.

Under the leadership of KADBUSA, the programme’s implementation has been meticulous and inclusive. Partnering with the Kaduna state ministry of sport development and various community sports associations, 32 coaches from eight communities underwent rigorous training to deliver the programme’s curriculum effectively. Each coach now mentors 30 adolescents, creating a network of nearly 1,000 participants engaged in weekly sessions across the state.

Toheeb’s journey: Overcoming peer pressure

Toheeb’s story is one of triumph over adversity. As a teenager growing up in one of Kaduna’s bustling communities, he faced constant peer pressure to engage in substance use and other risky behaviours. However, enrolling in the LULU programme marked a turning point in his life. Through the structured sessions, Toheeb learned critical skills such as self-awareness, decision-making, and resisting negative influences.

“Before LULU, I felt lost and unsure about my future,” Toheeb shares. “Now, I have the confidence to say no to peer pressure and focus on my dreams of becoming an engineer.” His transformation has not only inspired his peers but has also highlighted the potential of sports-based interventions in fostering positive change.

Gideon’s path: Building leadership skills

For Gideon, the LULU programme has been a platform for discovering his leadership potential. Initially reserved and unsure of his abilities, Gideon gradually emerged as a natural leader within his group. The programme’s emphasis on teamwork and communication empowered him to take on responsibilities, guiding his peers through challenges and encouraging them to strive for excellence.

“The LULU programme taught me how to lead with empathy and courage,” Gideon says. “I now understand the importance of helping others while staying focused on my goals.” Today, he dreams of becoming a teacher, determined to pass on the values he has gained to the next generation.

Visionary leadership driving change

The success of the LULU programme would not have been possible without the forward-thinking leadership of Governor Uba Sani. Under his administration, Kaduna state has embraced innovative approaches like Kd-CHAMPS to tackle complex social issues. By championing initiatives such as LULU, the state has demonstrated a commitment to creating safe, supportive environments for its youth to thrive.

Governor Sani’s vision is complemented by KADBUSA’s dedication to implementing the programme effectively. The agency’s collaboration with UNODC, local ministries, and community stakeholders underscores the importance of partnerships in achieving sustainable development goals. Together, they have laid a foundation for lasting change, ensuring that young people like Toheeb and Gideon have the tools to build brighter futures.

A model for the future

As KADBUSA and its partners continue to monitor the programme’s progress, plans are underway to expand LULU to more communities across Kaduna State. This expansion promises to reach thousands more adolescents, equipping them with the skills to resist substance abuse and embrace opportunities for growth.

Toheeb and Gideon’s stories are just the beginning. They serve as powerful reminders of what is possible when visionary leadership meets community-driven initiatives. Through the LULU programme, Kaduna State is not only addressing substance abuse but also nurturing a generation of resilient, responsible, and resourceful youth ready to shape a brighter tomorrow.

With initiatives like LULU and the steadfast support of leaders like His Excellency Senator Uba Sani, Kaduna is setting a benchmark for proactive and sustainable youth development strategies in Nigeria and beyond.