The immediate past President of the Benikrukru Youth Development Initiative (BYDI), Comrade Prosper Edio Agali, has called on leaders, parents, youths and all indigenes of Benikrukru Community in the ancient Gbaramatu Kingdom, Warri South-West Local Government Area of Delta State, to unite in the fight against drug abuse and other criminal activities, warning that the menace poses a serious threat to the future of the younger generation.

Agali made the appeal while delivering his farewell address during the inauguration of the newly-elected BYDI Executive Council led by Comrade Christian Okito at the Oboro Ultra Modern Playground, Benikrukru Community, on Saturday, July 25, 2026.

Reflecting on his three-year tenure as Youth President, Agali described the opportunity to serve as the "greatest honour" of his leadership journey, expressing gratitude to God, community elders, youth advisers and members of the Benikrukru youth body for their unwavering support, trust and constructive criticism throughout his administration.

He acknowledged the contributions of prominent leaders and advisers, including Bright Tortor, Cele Sukunu, Engr. Jimmy Ogida, MD of Jimco Nigeria Limited; Sir Victor Tonlagha, Engr. Michael Tonlagha, Chief (Amb.) Jeffrey Ojogun, Uncle Solo and his mentor, Comrade Joel Tonjoh, among others, for their guidance and encouragement.

The former youth leader highlighted some of the achievements recorded during his administration, including educational support through the payment of school fees and sponsorship of students for the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WAEC), the provision of toilet facilities, the construction of a wooden jetty for the community, improved financial accountability and prudent management of the youth body's resources.

According to him, his administration also promoted inclusiveness by ensuring that every youth had a voice in the affairs of the organisation while strengthening unity and teamwork among members.

Agali, however, used the occasion to raise concern over the increasing incidence of illegal drug sales and abuse within the community, urging all stakeholders to take decisive action to safeguard the future of Benikrukru youths, stressinh that drug abuse was destroying the lives and potential of many young people, leading them into addiction, crime, violence and hopelessness, adding that "a drug-free community remains the foundation for sustainable peace, security and development."

The former BYDI President congratulated Comrade Christian Okito and members of the newly inaugurated executive, urging them to lead with empathy, transparency, humility and a listening ear, as well as encouraged the new leadership to remain focused on the vision that brought them into office, assuring them of his continuous support whenever called upon.

Agali also appealed to members of the Benikrukru Youth Development Initiative to rally behind the new executive through active participation, patience and loyalty, noting that the success of any administration depends on the collective commitment of the entire youth body.

"As I step down today, I do not step away from our youth family. I will be always available if called upon. I leave off this path of what we build and incredibly excited for where we are going next," he added.

View photos during inauguration: https://www.facebook.com/share/p/1GiCc5uCeu/