By Ige Adekunle
The Special Area Command, National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Idiroko,Ogun,has appealed to Ogun government and stakeholders to continue to support the campaigns in the fight against drug abuse.
Mr Dinneys Owen,the Idiroko Area Commander NDLEA made the appeal during a one-week programme organised to commemorate this year World Drug Day on Tuesday in Idiroko,Ogun.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the United Nations International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Drug Trafficking is marked every June 26.
The theme of this year event is :”People First: Stop Stigma and Discrimination, Strengthen Prevention.”
Owen stressed the need for Ogun govt.and stakeholders to support public enlightened campaigns against drug abuse as more youths were more involved in this nefarious act.
The NDLEA boss said that the increase in incessant cases of drugs abuse, especially by the youths,was worrisome and contributing crime rate across the country.
He noted that men, female and old people were also involved using of substance drugs and trafficking of drugs
“We are appealing to the youths and others people involved in this nefarious act to shun drug and other substance abuse and focus on their education to become useful to themselves and the society.”
“In addition,the NDLEA urged the state government and all Nigerians to continue support the agency in the area of logistics and to always partnering through sensitisation programme.”he said.
Owen commended all the guests for attending the event and urged them to continue to support the agency toward the fight against drugs abuse.
Also, Dr. Olusegun Oke, who represented the Chairman Chief Executive Officer of NDLEA, Gen Buba Marwa (Rtd) applauded the officers and personnel of the Idiroko Special Area Command for organizing such a remarkable event.
Marwa lauded the Area Commander also for his exceptional leadership and encouraged him to maintain his high standards.
He, however ,said that this year’s UN Drug Day was a historic occasion, adding that evident from the numerous goodwill messages received from reputable organizations and individuals, expressing their felicitations for the event.
Dr. Kilanko Maggrrate, a guest speaker, provided valuable insights into the medical and social effects of drug abuse and acknowledging the significant progress made in tackling drug demand and supply.
Maggrrate emphasized the need to enhance prevention efforts and support individuals affected by drug abuse.
The event attracted prominent figures from Idiroko, including members and heads of sister security agencies, Deputy Mayor and other delegates of Security Agencies from Benin Republic, NYSC members, teachers, and secondary school students from the Ipokia Local Government Area.(NAN).