World Drug Day: NDLEA Intensifies Anti-Drug Campaign in Anambra

|By Emmanuel Okonkwo (ABS News)

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Anambra State Command, has intensified its campaign against illicit drug trafficking and substance abuse with a public sensitisation walk in Awka to commemorate this year's World Drug Day.

The awareness campaign, themed "The World Drug Problem: Persisting Issues, New Challenges, Innovative Responses," featured personnel of the NDLEA alongside the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) and other stakeholders. The procession moved from the NDLEA headquarters at Udoka Estate through Kwata Junction, UNIZIK Junction, Eke Awka Roundabout and Ogbolu to Kwata Market, where members of the public were educated on the dangers of drug abuse and the importance of embracing a drug-free lifestyle.

Speaking after the exercise, the Commander of Narcotics and Commander of the NDLEA in Anambra State, Mr. Charles Onubogu, said the campaign was designed to reinforce public awareness of the devastating effects of substance abuse.

According to him, drug abuse destroys lives, truncates destinies and can lead to death.

He appealed to traditional rulers, religious leaders, parents, educational institutions and other stakeholders to partner with the agency in tackling drug trafficking and substance abuse, stressing that the NDLEA could not achieve a drug-free society without collective support.

Also speaking, the Anambra State Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps, Corps Commander Bridget Asikhalno, reaffirmed the corps' commitment to supporting the anti-drug campaign.

She said the FRSC would continue conducting drug and alcohol tests on commercial drivers and intensify public enlightenment programmes to discourage drug abuse and drunk driving, with the aim of improving road safety.

Nollywood actor and former Special Adviser to the Governor of Anambra State on Entertainment, Leisure and Tourism, Mr. Bob-Manuel Udokwu, commended the NDLEA for sustaining public awareness against substance abuse.

He urged young people to avoid hard drugs, describing them as a major threat to their future and aspirations, and encouraged them to embrace positive values capable of helping them achieve success in life.