Asaba/Nigeria: Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has expressed deep concern over the escalating problem of hard drug abuse in Nigeria, declaring it a global public health issue that demands immediate and collective attention.
During a visit from the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (Rtd), Governor Oborevwori lauded the ongoing efforts against hard drug abuse while emphasizing the need for sustained momentum in order to win the battle against this burgeoning illicit industry.
Oborevwori extended unwavering support from the State Government to the NDLEA, pledging commitment to the fight against substance abuse and the illicit drug trade. In his words, he celebrated General Marwa’s dedication and service, stating, “I celebrate your sacrifice, commitment and dedication to duty. You have demonstrated that you are a caring and passionate leader; the kind of leader we need in Nigeria.”
He commended the NDLEA for their significant accomplishments in dismantling drug cartels across the country. Addressing the ongoing drug abuse epidemic, he stressed the urgency of proactive measures, calling it both a global health and social problem that now plagues Nigeria as a public health menace.
Governor Oborevwori stated, “It needs urgent and proactive actions to be able to handle the trend, and I assure you of our unwavering support and partnership in this fight.” Notably, he mentioned that advocacy and rehabilitation efforts are already underway, and a Senior Special Assistant on Illicit Drugs has been appointed to support the NDLEA’s objectives.
The Governor also touched on an unfortunate incident in July, where an innocent child died during an NDLEA operation, stating that it would not deter the State Government from supporting the fight against drug trafficking and substance abuse. He clarified that the operation was based on reliable information, and the NDLEA took full responsibility, providing medical care for the affected family and even helping arrange medical treatment abroad for the surviving child.
General Marwa, in response, expressed his gratitude to Governor Oborevwori for his commitment and support, appreciating the Governor’s work in the state and wishing him continued success. During his visit to Delta State, he also consoled the Fidelis family over the tragic death of a two-year-old child during an operation in Asaba and engaged with stakeholders involved in the fight against drug trafficking.
General Marwa pointed out the imperative need to win the war against drug trafficking due to its detrimental impact on society. He cited alarming statistics, indicating that over 15 million drug users within the age bracket of 15 to 64 years exist in Nigeria. Moreover, he revealed that hard drug abuse in Delta State is particularly pronounced, with 18 percent of the population aged 15 to 64 involved.
The NDLEA, over the past two years, has taken significant strides, including destroying over 1,000 hectares of land dedicated to cultivating illicit drugs, seizing more than 6,000 tonnes of drugs, arresting over 36,000 suspects and individuals of interest, and securing over 6,000 convictions.
The highlight of the visit was the decoration of Governor Oborevwori as an Ambassador in the fight against drug and substance abuse, underscoring the gravity of the issue and the commitment of all stakeholders in tackling this menace head-on.
In the face of the growing challenge of hard drug abuse, Governor Oborevwori’s call for united efforts to address this crisis demonstrates a pivotal step towards safeguarding public health and the future of the nation.
