NOA, NDLEA commence sensitisation against illicit drug use across Northwest

The National Orientation Agency (NOA), in collaboration with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), has commenced a sensitisation campaign to stem the tide of the devastating effects of drug abuse and violent crimes across the Northwest geopolitical zone, comprising Kaduna, Katsina, Kano, Jigawa, Kebbi, Zamfara, and Sokoto.

Facilitated by the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, the theme of the campaign is “Stop Drug Abuse and Domestic Violence in Our Communities.”

Speaking at the flag-off of the program in Kaduna, the Director-General of the National Orientation Agency, Lanre Issa-Onilu, highlighted the dangers associated with illicit drug use and called for concerted efforts to combat the negative trend.

“Drug abuse is not just a national challenge; it is a crisis that threatens the very fabric of our society. Research has shown a direct link between drug abuse and violent crimes, including armed robbery, kidnapping, terrorism, domestic violence, and sexual assault.

“We must act decisively to break the cycle of addiction and crime. We must mobilise our communities, especially our youth, to resist and reject drug culture and criminal activities,” Issa-Onilu stated.

He praised the NDLEA for its work in combating drug use and trafficking and called on religious and traditional authorities to join the campaign against drug abuse and support the rehabilitation and reintegration of individuals impacted.

In his address, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the NDLEA, Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa retired, commended the NOA for organising the programme.

He pointed out that illicit drug use has been a major problem in the Northwest zone, adding that three million or 12% of the 25 million population in the geopolitical zone, use psychoactive substance with Kano State having the highest prevalence rate of 16%.

Marwa stressed the need for all stakeholders to work together to stop drug abuse, help people who are impacted by it, and ensure that drug traffickers are held accountable.

He also underlined the need to provide people engaged in the production and distribution of illegal drugs alternate forms of income.