Abuja, Nigeria — The Presidency has thrown its weight behind a renewed campaign against rising social vices in schools and universities. It warns that the growing moral drift among young Nigerians could undermine the nation’s long-term reforms and stability.

Chief of Staff to the President, Femi Gbajabiamila, gave the assurance while receiving members of the Special Committee on Campaign Against Social Vices in Secondary and Tertiary Institutions at the Aso Rock Presidential Villa. The delegation was led by its chairman, Jerry Ugokwe.

In a statement issued by the State House Director of Information and Public Relations, Gbajabiamila described the committee’s mandate as “critical to Nigeria’s future.” It stressed that unchecked social vices among students now constitute a growing national concern.

“Many of the federal government’s reforms are forward-looking and targeted at the younger generation,” he said. “Failure to properly guide and support our youth could undermine the long-term gains of these reforms.”

Youth at a Crossroads

Stakeholders say increasing cases of cultism, cybercrime, drug abuse and exam malpractice are gradually eroding the moral fabric of educational institutions. Analysts warn that if the trend continues, it may weaken the very demographic often described as the engine of Nigeria’s future growth.

Education advocates argue that while economic reforms and infrastructure development are vital, the absence of strong value reorientation programmes could leave young people vulnerable to destructive influences.

“The danger is not just in the crimes themselves,” one policy analyst noted, “but in the normalization of misconduct among young people who should be preparing to lead the country.”

Legal Turbulence and Public Perception

Meanwhile, the nation’s anti-corruption fight has also captured public attention. The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) re-arraigned former Attorney General of the Federation, Abubakar Malami, alongside his wife and son before the Federal High Court in Abuja over alleged money laundering.

The defendants pleaded not guilty to a 16-count charge. The case was reassigned to Justice Joyce Abdul Malik following the recusal of two judges. Bail applications are scheduled for hearing in early March 2026.

In a related development, the court granted bail to Malami and his son in a separate matter involving allegations of terrorism and illegal firearms possession brought by the Department of State Services. However, they were ordered remanded pending the perfection of stringent bail conditions, including the provision of sureties with landed property in high-value districts of Abuja.

A Generation Watching

Observers say the high-profile legal battles involving senior public officials may send conflicting signals to young Nigerians already grappling with economic hardship and social pressure.

“When young people see leaders entangled in corruption and criminal allegations, it risks deepening cynicism,” a youth development expert said. “That cynicism can fuel the very vices the government is trying to curb.”

As Nigeria intensifies efforts to combat social decay in schools, experts emphasize that success will require not only enforcement and surveillance but also mentorship, transparency and consistent accountability at all levels of leadership.