NOA, NDLEA, others collaborate to end drug abuse in Oyo

The Oyo State Director of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), and other relevant stakeholders have resolved to put an end to drug abuse, notably among the youth in Oyo State.

The NDLEA, in collaboration with the NOA Oyo State chapter and the member of the House of Representatives representing North East/South East Federal Constituency, Hon. Abass Agboworin, at a seminar themed War Against Drug Abuse held in Ibadan, restated their commitment to zero tolerance for drug abuse.

The State Director of NOA, Dr Olukemi Afolayan, called on all relevant stakeholders in Oyo State to join forces to end the scourge of drug abuse.

She emphasised that the war against drug abuse is a collective responsibility that requires the involvement of all stakeholders, including community leaders, religious bodies, youth leaders, and market associations. She noted that most crimes are perpetrated under the influence of drugs and urged stakeholders to support the NDLEA and NOA in their efforts to combat drug abuse.

The speaker, Tirimisiyu Suleiman, highlighted the alarming rate of drug abuse incidents in Nigeria and urged the public to avoid non-medically prescribed drugs. He emphasised the social and psychological consequences of drug abuse, including loss of jobs, family disintegration, HIV/AIDS, and terrorism.

Dignitaries present at the seminar included the Deputy Governor of Oyo State, Barrister Bayo Lawal, who reiterated the state government’s support for the war against drug abuse to create a safer, healthier, and more prosperous society for all.

Other stakeholders at the meeting included the Deputy Speaker, Hon. Muhammad Fadeyi, as well as other political office holders, council chairmen, market leaders, and members of the NDLEA.