EDSG inaugurates State and Local Government Drug Control Committee to coordinate drug control initiatives
In a proactive effort to tackle drug abuse and illicit trafficking, Edo State Government (EDSG) has formally inaugurated a Committee to strengthen the coordination of drug control initiatives.
During the inauguration ceremony held at the New Festival Hall, Government House, Benin City, the Governor of Edo State, Senator Monday Okpebholo, represented by the Deputy Governor, Hon. Dennis Idahosa, noted that the Committee was inaugurated to tackle the scourge of drug trafficking and abuse, describing the Inauguration as a significant stride towards safeguarding the society, curbing crime and protecting citizens.
In his words, “It is with great joy and deep sense of responsibility that this significant Committee is being officially inaugurated in our State today. This gathering marks a vital step in our unwavering commitment to addressing the scourge of drug trafficking and abuse that threatens the fabric of our society.
”I am particularly glad that Edo State has taken this bold initiative, in compliance with the National Drug Control Master Plan. Drug trafficking and abuse represent a complex challenge, affecting individuals, families and communities. They contribute to the rise of crime, violence and social instability”.
He also emphasized that the newly inaugurated Committee would develop strategies to prevent drug abuse, provide education and collaborate with Stakeholders to create a drug-free State, adding that the Committee’s expertise and dedication were expected to drive success. He called on Stakeholders’ collaboration to achieve a brighter, drug-free future for the State’s children.
On her part, the Coordinator, Office of the Edo State First Lady and Chairperson of the Committee, Mrs. Edesili Okpebholo Anani, described drug abuse as a pervasive issue affecting the youths, adding that the vice was closely linked to crime and needed immediate intervention.
She further emphasized the crucial role of women in the fight against drug abuse, citing their unique capacity for empathy and ability to connect with children, while appealing for greater representation of women in anti-drug efforts, recognizing their potential to drive positive change.
”In our fight against drug abuse, it’s crucial to involve women, who are often the backbone of Society and the home. Women possess a unique capacity for empathy and sympathy, allowing them to connect with children in ways that others may not. A mother’s love and concern can be a powerful motivator. As such, I strongly appeal for greater representation of women in our efforts to combat drug abuse”. Mrs. Anani said.
The Coordinator who called for sensitization efforts through community outreaches, radio campaigns and collaboration with relevant Stakeholders, recommended that, in addition to HIV and genotype tests, couples should undergo drug testing before marriage, emphasizing on the significant influence of music on children, while cautioning that songs glorifying substance use could potentially lead them down a destructive path.
Meanwhile, the Commander of Narcotics, Edo State Command, National Drug Law and Enforcement Agency, CN Mitchell Ofoyeju, noted that the inauguration of the Edo State Drug Control Committee marked a significant milestone in the State’s history, being the first in Nigeria to have a group State Committee. According to him, the bold step aligned with the National Drug Control Master Plan’s recommendations.
He also discussed drug abuse statistics, specifically comparing the prevalence of drug use in Edo State, Nigeria, to the national average. According to him “The data of drug prevalence which we have shows that Edo State is slightly having a drug prevalence higher than the national. At the National level, the drug prevalence is 14.4%, which translates to about 14.3 million Nigerians who were said to have used drugs in 2018. But in Edo State, the percentage is 15%, which translates to about 330,000 persons in Edo State”.
He further explained that the newly inaugurated Drug Control Committee aimed at improving public health, community resilience and awareness on drug abuse, while disrupting trafficking and providing treatment.
Highpoint of the meeting was the administration of the oath of office to the newly inaugurated Committee by His Excellency, Senator Monday Okpebholo.
Gloria Osemudiamhen
Public Relations Officer
Office of the First Lady
Edo State
