The Abia State Ministry of Information has pledged to work closely with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) to reduce drug abuse and stop the illegal sale and distribution of drugs in the State.
The Commissioner for Information, Prince Okey Kanu, made the promise when the NDLEA Commander in Abia State, CM Leo Nnadim, visited him in Umuahia.
Kanu described drug abuse as a serious problem that requires the attention of the government and the public. He explained that the fight against drugs should not be limited to arresting suspects and seizing illegal substances. He said people also needed to be educated about the dangers of drug abuse.
The commissioner assured that Governor Alex Otti’s government is ready to support the NDLEA in its efforts to curb the menace of drug abuse and protect residents of the State.
He noted that the governor’s declaration of a state-of- emergency on drug abuse shows the government’s concern about the problem, especially its effect on young people.
Kanu said the government would continue to support efforts to stop the sale and use of illegal drugs, adding that educating the public about the dangers of drug abuse is also necessary to prevent them from taking harmful substances.
He assured the NDLEA that the Ministry of Information would use its media platforms to educate residents and encourage them to join the fight against drug abuse.
The commissioner also called for more cooperation between the ministry and the NDLEA to take the campaign to schools, churches, communities, youth groups and other public places.
He urged parents, traditional rulers, religious leaders and community leaders to help educate young people about the dangers of drug abuse. He said everyone has a role to play in making Abia State safer and healthier.
Earlier, the NDLEA Commander, CM Leo Nnadim, said educating the public and preventing drug abuse are important parts of the fight against illegal drugs.
He explained that regular awareness campaigns would help people understand the dangers of drug abuse and discourage young people from taking harmful substances.
Nnadim said the fight against drugs requires both law enforcement and public education. He added that people affected by substance abuse also need proper support.
The NDLEA commander called for closer cooperation with the Ministry of Information to ensure that correct information reach people in different communities. He said media campaigns and public awareness programmes would help discourage drug abuse across the State.
He assured the ministry that the NDLEA is ready to work with it to reduce drug abuse and tackle illegal drug activities in Abia State.
The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Information, Sir Chris Onwuegbu, commended the NDLEA for its efforts in substance abuse and illegal drug trafficking.
He said public education is important in helping people change harmful habits and make better choices. He assured the agency that the ministry would support the partnership by sharing useful information and educating the public.
In his vote of thanks, the Deputy Commander of the NDLEA, DCM Ngwuta Patrick, thanked the commissioner and other officials of the ministry for receiving the delegation.
He expressed hope that the meeting would improve cooperation between both organisations and lead to more public awareness programmes to prevent drug abuse.
The meeting ended with a renewed commitment by both organisations to work together through public education, community involvement and law enforcement to reduce drug abuse and protect the future of young people in Abia State.
- Media Report