By Chukwuka Ugokwe
As part of activities marking this year’s United Nations International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has organised a roadshow to sensitise residents of Awka and its environs on the dangers of substance abuse.
The awareness campaign, held on June 25, brought together officials of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members, and other stakeholders.
The procession commenced from the NDLEA office at Udoka Estate, to UNIZIK Junction, Zik Avenue and Eke Awka Market, before returning to its starting point. Along the route, participants distributed anti-drug messages and engaged members of the public on the harmful effects of drug abuse.
Speaking during the exercise, the Anambra State Commander of the NDLEA, Mr. Charles Onubogu, urged residents to shun drug abuse, describing it as a major threat to individuals, families and society. According to him, the campaign was aimed at creating greater public awareness of the devastating consequences of substance abuse and encouraging citizens to join the fight against the menace.
He advised parents and guardians to closely monitor their children and wards for early signs of drug abuse, noting that prompt intervention could prevent addiction and its associated consequences.
”We want to create awareness and let people know the dangers of drug abuse. Today, we visited strategic locations across the city to encourage everyone to be part of the campaign. Drug abuse is not only harmful to those who use these substances but also to their families and society at large,” he said.
Mr. Onubogu commended the media, sister security agencies and other stakeholders for supporting the campaign and urged them to sustain the awareness drive in their respective communities.
Also speaking, the Anambra State Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), Mrs. Bridget Asekhauno, and Nollywood actor, Bob Manuel Udokwu, called on young people to stay away from drugs, warning that substance abuse could destroy their future and derail their aspirations.
Mrs. Asekhauno expressed the FRSC’s commitment to strengthening collaboration with the NDLEA and other stakeholders in the campaign against drug abuse, describing collective action as essential to tackling the growing social menace.
Chukwuka Ugokwe is of the Ministry of Information and Value Reformation, Anambra State
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