The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) Tin-Can Island Port Command, has launched its War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) programme, sensitizing members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) undertaking their primary assignments under the Ajeromi-Ifelodun Local Government Area of Lagos State.
Chairman of the Local Government Area, Hon. Fatai Ayoola, during the programme, which held at the local government secretariat, urged the participants to avoid involvement in drug abuse and be responsible citizens by contributing meaningfully to national growth and development.
The Chairman who was represented by the Vice Chairman, Hon. Lucky Uduikhue, received the NDLEA team and also participated in the sensitisation program. He said, “We cannot afford to lose our young people to the scourge of drug trafficking and abuse. It is imperative that we work together to educate and empower our youths to make positive choices and lead healthy, productive lives.”
Speaking, the Commander of Narcotics, Mitchell Ofoyeju, in charge of the Tin-can Island Port Strategic Command, emphasised the importance of engaging the youth in conversations about drug abuse.
Highlighting the damaging effects of drug abuse on individuals and communities, Ofoyeju said: “The youths are the future of our nation. We must empower them with knowledge and skills to resist the allure of drugs. Together, we can create a society characterised by hope, health, and productivity.”
After a lecture titled “Dangers of Drug Abuse” by Assistant Commander of Narcotics Salihu Isah Machi, Hon. Uduikhue was decorated by Commander Ofoyeju as WADA partner.
The decoration symbolises a collaborative approach in mobilising the youth and local community against the rising tide of drug abuse in the state.
The chairman stressed the importance of creating awareness and providing support systems for youths to prevent them from falling into the trap of drug abuse. He also emphasised the need for collaboration between the government, law enforcement agencies, schools, and community organisations to address this pressing issue.
The event featured an interactive session of question and answer designed to inform and engage the audience.
The NDLEA representatives led discussions on risks associated with drug abuse, the legal framework surrounding drug trafficking, and the importance of reporting drug-related activities.
Most of the participants expressed satisfaction with the lecture and thanked NDLEA officials for the initiative. They also shared their thoughts, experiences, and strategies on how to collectively combat drug abuse effectively.
The chairman reiterated his commitment to partnering with the NDLEA officials and called on all stakeholders to join hands in ensuring a safe and thriving community for all.
Credit: CrimeWorld
