World Drug Day: Obaseki charges NDLEA, other stakeholders to check abuse, illicit trade in drugs

The Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, has said the State Government is deploying measures to strengthen collaboration with critical stakeholders to check the incidence of drug abuse and illicit trade.

The governor said this on the commemoration of the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking marked every year on June 26, by the United Nations Office on Drug and Crimes (UNODC) and its sister organs.

According to the governor, “As we mark the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, we reaffirm our commitment to work with critical stakeholders including the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and other actors to check the incidence of drug abuse and illicit trafficking. The dangers posed by drug abuse in society is alarming.

“The consequent impact of illicit drug use on the mental health of citizens is also worrisome. This is why we will continue to partner with relevant agencies to check drug abuse, ensuring that these actors get the necessary support in apprehending and prosecuting offenders.”

“We are also working closely with the NDLEA and other experts to monitor progress recorded with the rehabilitation of apprehended drug abusers.”

According to him, the theme for this year’s commemoration, 'the evidence is clear: invest in prevention,' aligns with “our approach for engaging our youths with programmes and training that equips them to lead better lives and keep them away from drugs.”

Obaseki added that the State Government, through the Ministry of Youths and Humanitarian Affairs will continue to collaborate with partners to drive awareness that focus on prevention among youths.