The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) says it has taken campaign to schools, streets and markets in the country, to educate the people on the dangers of consuming illegal drugs and drug trafficking.
The Chairperson NDLEA, Col. Muhammad Abdallah (rtd), said this in his address of welcome at a news conference on Thursday in Abuja.
Abdallah, who was represented by his Chief of Staff, Femi Oloruntoba said that the campaign was launched in commemoration of 2019 International Day against drug abuse and illicit drug trafficking, slated for June 26.
He added that the personnel of NDLEA, saddled with the implementing the laws on illicit traffic and abuse of drugs, had worked diligently and in many cases paid the supreme price.
He said that the theme of this year’s event, “Health for Justice; Justice for health’’would address three broad issues: Drug dependent persons having access to the treatment they need, issue of connecting drug prevention and building knowledge for Justice and health.
He added that it would also provide opportunity to know what the government and other stakeholders were doing to address the scourge and its consequences.
“The theme presupposes that effective responses to the challenges of drug require inclusive and accountable institutions of criminal justice, health and social services to work together to provide integrated solutions.
“The Programme is a one week full of activities and today, Thursday June 20, we shall be going to Government Secondary School, GSS Wuse Zone 3, Abuja and then proceed to Nyanya market to sensitise the market women and men.
Among other places to create awareness, starting from Friday June 21 to Tuesday June 25 are; IDP camps, motor parks, farmers and hunters and University of Abuja.
Abdallah said that the 2019 international day against drug abuse and drug trafficking was in partnership with MTN through MTN foundation in other to achieve its corporate social responsibility had, since the beginning of 2019.
The NDLEA boss said that the agency had collaborated at bilateral and multilateral levels with other countries to address the drug problem.
“We hope to eradicate the menace of drug abuse and ensure Nigeria is safe from drug related issues” he said.
(NAN)