A youth group, Royal Ambassadors of Nigeria, has disclosed that it started the “No Gree” campaign as part of efforts aimed at discouraging alcohol consumption, violence, sexual immorality and other social vices.
The group noted that the “No Gree” campaign spearheaded by its Anti-Social Vices Club (ASVC) keys into the “No Gree for Anybody” slogan of young Nigerians on social media.
The group is a religious-based organisation founded by the Nigerian Baptist convention for boys from 10 years old to 35 years.
Coordinator of the organisation in Lagos East, Adedolapo Adedayo, disclosed that the slogan ‘No Gree’, which signifies resistance and a refusal to accept various situations would now be channeled towards discouraging social vices, adding that the campaign will last for six months.
Speaking on the recent statement credited to the Nigeria Police Force Public Relations Officer, Muyiwa Adejobi, cautioning Nigerians on the use of the slogan, Adedayo urged youths to promote the slogan in a constructive manner that encourages positive change.
He said, “while this may be viewed as a foresight into possible dangers, it emphasises the need for caution in its use. My advice to the youth is to wield the #NoGree catchphrase responsibly, promoting constructive conversations and avoiding any expressions that may contribute to a hostile environment. By doing so, we can harness its power for positive change while mitigating potential risks associated with its misuse.”
On the operations of the organisation, Adedayo said: “We engage in a comprehensive study of our environment, specifically focusing on the prevalent trends and interests among the youth demographic. This involves a thorough analysis of what is currently trending and widely embraced.
“Armed with this knowledge, we curate valuable insights and offer practical tips, aligning them with the identified trends. By staying attuned to the interests of the youth, we aim to provide relevant and beneficial information, fostering a connection that resonates with their current preferences and concerns.”
Commenting on the success of the campaign so far, he said, “the social media platform has proven to be an instrumental tool for us, serving as the primary conduit for conveying the #NoGree campaign to a diverse audience. We are delighted to witness the significant impact and outreach we have achieved since the inception of this campaign.”
He added, “Through strategic use of social media, we’ve been successful in reaching a broader and more diverse audience, amplifying our message of resilience and the rejection of negative influences. This digital approach allows us to connect with people from various backgrounds, fostering a collective movement that transcends geographical boundaries and resonates with a wide range of individuals.”
Apart from the weekly social media campaign, Adedayo disclosed that the organisation will also hold a debate February 3, 2024, to campaign against drug abuse among 19 secondary schools in Lagos State to complement the rally held in December 2023 where participants carried a placard with inscriptions urging youths to abstain from social vices.