President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed his commitment to combatting drug addiction during the 2024 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking summit in Abuja on Wednesday.
Represented by Senator George Akume, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Tinubu commended the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for its vigorous efforts in fighting substance abuse and trafficking.
Under the theme “The Evidence is Clear: Invest in Prevention,” Tinubu urged widespread support for the NDLEA’s War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) campaign.
He emphasized the administration’s dedication to protecting youth through preventive measures, highlighting the importance of investing in programs that empower individuals and communities to resist drug abuse.
Tinubu underscored the devastating impact of illicit drugs on individuals and society, stressing that prevention is crucial in saving lives and resources that would otherwise be spent on treatment.
He called for evidence-based prevention strategies, adequate resource allocation, and collaboration among stakeholders to effectively tackle the drug menace.
In his remarks, NDLEA Chairman, Brig Gen Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), introduced the ‘Save Our Families’ campaign aimed at early detection and intervention of drug use.
Marwa emphasized the agency’s new initiatives, including the Drug Integrity Test for schools, workplaces, and other institutions, designed to prevent drug use and facilitate timely intervention and support for affected individuals.
The President concluded by urging all Nigerians, including religious and traditional leaders, educational institutions, and civil society organizations, to join hands in the fight against drug abuse.
He expressed confidence in NDLEA’s efforts and pledged government support to further enhance their impact in curbing drug abuse nationwide.
