In line with its mandate to sensitise the populace on the dangers of engaging in social vices, the National Orientation Agency (NOA) has organised a one-day sensitisation forum against political thuggery, kidnapping, drug addiction and violent extremism.
The sensitisation forum which has its theme “Building a secure and safer Nigeria for All; Take Responsibility” is in cognisance of alarming waves of security challenges, vandalism and drug abuse/ addiction in some parts of the country.
According to a communiqué issued at the end of the meeting, the objective of the meeting was to mobilise and sensitise on the need to identify with the Nigerian Nation and reject acts that could threaten the identity, image, reputation, integrity and corporate existence of our country.
The communiqué which was signed by the Chairman Communiqué Committee, Dr Davidson Aminu further stated that its objective was to “encourage, mobilise and galvanise support for relevant government Agencies network organisations and critical stakeholders in respect of the on-going campaign against drug abuse/addiction.
“To effectively engage and educate critical stakeholders and participants to cooperate and support the federal government effort in promoting enduring peace and security and to mobilize against any act capable of bringing about violence and insecurity in the country.”
The Communiqué noted that participants discussed and observed the incidence of political thuggery, kidnapping and other violent acts in Nigeria has its roots in drug abuse/addiction.
“Abuse of drugs in Nigeria is as a result of the decline in family value systems, that is, parents not playing their proper role in bringing up the child, social media influence, poverty and unemployment.
“Drug abuse has been known to lead to health challenges, social problems, and morbidity, injuries, and violence, death and road accidents,” the communiqué stated.
As part of its recommendation, the communiqué stated that “there is the need for greater involvement of educational institutions through emphasis in the curriculum about dangers of drug abuse and religious institutions in laying more emphasis on the protection of the body from substances that can damage and destroy it.
“Collaboration among strategic agencies like NOA, NAFDAC, UNODC, NDLEA and Pharmaceutical Council of Nigeria in awareness creation on the War Against Drug Abuse is important for a meaningful impact.
“Adequate sensitisation and awareness creation with relevant stakeholders especially the host communities and security agencies is important to ensure adequate policing and protection of all critical infrastructures throughout the country.
“A whole of government and society approach through strong inter-agency platforms and synergy is canvassed to address issues of violent extremism and radicalisation.
“The federal government should continue to provide an effective strategic communication platform to encourage constructive engagements through dialogue, mediation and negotiation as well as effective sensitisation using media tools to ensure peace.
“Government should also ensure that a regulatory framework is put in place to enable it to deal with issues of violent acts in the country.
“Social institutions like family, educational, religious, traditional institutions and civil society must work assiduously, individually and collectively to restore our cherished values.
“The use of social media, collaboration with traditional rulers, religious leaders and critical stakeholders to effectively sensitise Nigerians against drug abuse, vandalisation and violent acts was solicited for meaningful impact.”
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