The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has raised concerns over the growing number of Nigerian youth in rehabilitation centres due to drug abuse, emphasizing the need for stronger collaborative efforts to curb the menace.
Speaking on Tuesday during a strategic meeting with the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) in Oshodi, Lagos, the Assistant Commander General of Narcotics, Archie-Abia Ibinabo, underscored the devastating impact of illicit drug consumption on young Nigerians.
She revealed that many youths are currently undergoing rehabilitation across the country, a situation that underscores the severity of the drug crisis.
“Many of our youth are currently in rehabilitation centres across the country due to drug addiction. The only way to curb this menace is through a concerted, all-hands-on-deck approach,” Archie-Abia was quoted as saying, according to a statement by Adebayo Taofiq, LASTMA’s spokesperson.
The high-level engagement between NDLEA and LASTMA aimed to strengthen intelligence-sharing mechanisms to intercept illicit drug transportation, particularly through unconventional channels such as dispatch motorcycles, ambulances, and private vehicles.
LASTMA General Manager, Mr Olalekan Bakare-Oki, lamented the rising trend of reckless driving, attributing many road accidents to drug-induced impairment.
He emphasized that tackling drug abuse would not only save lives but also reduce criminal activities and enhance public safety.
To recognize LASTMA’s commitment to public safety and drug abuse prevention, the NDLEA honoured Mr Bakare-Oki with the prestigious ‘WADA ADVOCACY’ recognition award.
The NDLEA and LASTMA reaffirmed their commitment to intensified enforcement actions, public sensitization, and proactive intelligence-sharing to dismantle drug networks and enhance public safety.
