Kogi Govt Expresses Readiness to Build Rehabilitation Centers for Drug Addicts
Kogi State government has hinted that it is ready to build and equip rehabilitation centers across the state to assist those that are addicted to abusing illicit drugs and substances.
This was made known today in Okene through the state Commissioner for Youth and Sports Development, Honourable Monday Aridaojo Anyebe during a Town Hall interactive session in commemoration of the 2024 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.
The Commissioner who further noted that the programme was organized by his ministry in conjunction with Kogi State Command of the Nigeria Drug Laws Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) to advance the course of enlightenment on the dangers of drug abuse, reiterated that if the future of Kogi State must be secured, the youths must also be preserved.
“In line with the vision of the performing Executive Governor of Kogi State, His Excellency, Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, and his robust interest in the wellbeing of the youths of Kogi State, it is of absolute importance for the youth and the entire populace to be sensitized on the harmful effects of this killer habit, primarily practiced by the younger generations.
“His Excellency believes that if we as citizens and particularly as youths, join hands together, we can and will, kick-out the abuse of drugs in our society, and particularly in Kogi State. Thereby achieving a healthier society capable of fostering sustainable development and economic growth in our dear state. If we must secure our future, the youths has to be preserved; as we are the Leader of today, and likewise tomorrow”, he said.
While explaining the negative impacts of drug trafficking and substance abuse, Hon. Anyebe said the menace is a serious issue that affects not only individuals but also families, communities, and society as a whole, adding that it can lead to health issues and even death.
Earlier in an address, Kogi State Commandant of the NDLEA, Mr Umar Mustafa Yahuza emphasized that if the scourge of drug trafficking must be curtailed, efforts of all stakeholders like traditional rulers, clerics, youths’ organisations and other opinion leaders must be sought.
While appreciating Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo for the deserved priority placed on the future of Kogi youths, the NDLEA boss revealed that his office is ever accessible to whoever is battling with addiction issues for correctional services.
On her part, the Special Adviser to Kogi State Governor on Illicit Drug Abuse, Hon. Eunice Achimugu urged mothers to pay more attention to possible strange behavior of their children which she opined could stem from drug abuse due to peer influence.
Hon. Eunice corroborated the position of the NDLEA boss when she affirmed that drug abuse begins with experimentation adding that aside health hazards, it shortens ones life span. “Many people abuse drugs out of ignorance without knowing the negative impacts and that is why this sensitization should be deepened to the grassroots”, she said.
The programme was attended by top government functionaries, members of National Youths Council of Nigeria (NYCN), students’ associations and corps members who all pledged to work with the ministry of Youth and Sports Development and the NDLEA in the fight against drug abuse and trafficking.
Highlight of the programme was the decoration of the Ohinoyi Ebiraland, His Royal Majesty, Alh Dr Ahmed Tijani Muhammed Anaje as Ambassador of War Against Drug abuse by the NDLEA.
Grand finale of the sensitization programme will take place on 26th of June at Government House, Lokoja where further discussions on implications of drug abuse on mental health of the society will be elucidated by experts.
