ASABA/Nigeria: In response to the growing concern over the rising instances of psychoactive substance abuse among the youth in the country, the Delta State Government has expressed profound worries regarding the potential physical, social, and emotional harm that may result from this perilous trend.
To combat this menace, the state is set to implement a multifaceted approach encompassing rigorous campaigns and rehabilitation strategies. This initiative, spearheaded by Governor Oborevwori’s MORE agenda, includes intensifying arrests and prosecutions of unrepentant users and sellers, rehabilitating drug addicts, and reintegrating them into society through wealth and job creation programs.
Dr Wilfred Oghenesivbe, the Chief Executive Officer of Delta State Orientation Bureau, revealed this comprehensive plan during a live radio program over the weekend. He emphasized Governor Oborevwori’s unwavering commitment to citizen well-being and determination to eradicate or significantly reduce the use of illegal drugs across the three Senatorial Districts.
Oghenesivbe disclosed that the Delta State Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has expressed official interest in collaborating with the State Orientation Bureau to sensitize youth about the life-threatening consequences of substance abuse and the use of illegal drugs. This collaborative effort is anticipated to substantially curtail the menace within the state.
Assuring the reach of the Bureau’s campaign across the Delta Central, Delta North, and Delta South senatorial districts, Oghenesivbe highlighted the involvement of NDLEA personnel in articulating the dangers of illicit drug use, its legal implications, and other adverse consequences.
Underlining the state government’s commitment to social security and citizen welfare programs encapsulated in Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s MORE agenda, Oghenesivbe assured that the government would allocate necessary funds to rehabilitate drug addicts and integrate them into wealth and job creation programs as they voluntarily seek government assistance during and after the joint sensitization exercise with NDLEA.
Oghenesivbe emphasized, “The state government and the Governor Sheriff Oborevwori administration take the issue of substance abuse and use of illegal drugs very seriously. Campaigns against drug abuse shall be given prime attention.”
He further explained, “We are targeting Colleges and Institutions of higher learning in the state. We shall be on the ground at various campuses with NDLEA officials to articulate the dangers of illicit drugs and substance abuse, as well as the criminal elements and prosecution associated with the crime.”
Highlighting the government’s commitment to the well-being and progress of the state’s youth, Oghenesivbe concluded, “Advancing Delta is about saving lives and ensuring the prosperity and well-being of Deltans. It’s about good governance in all ramifications.”
