Category: Defence/Security

NDLEA, centre partner on campaign against drug abuse
The Chairman, National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) retired, Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa with the Executive Director, Vanguard Against Drug Abuse (VGADA) detox centre in Abuja

NDLEA, centre partner on campaign against drug abuse

Rehabilitation
By Ibironke Ariyo
Abuja, June 8, 2024 (NAN) The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and the Vanguard Against Drug Abuse (VGADA) detox centre have strengthened partnership on the campaign against drug abuse, treatment and rehabilitation of drug users.
The NDLEA Chairman, retired, Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa said this when the Executive Director of the rehabilitation centre paid a courtesy visit to the agency on Friday in Abuja.
Marwa was represented by the Director, Media and Advocacy, NDLEA, Mr Femi Babafemi.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the VGADA detox centre which is a rehabilitation facility in Abuja is organising a National Youth Conference on Drug Abuse for Youths on June 28.
Marwa said that the agency had partnered other organisations that have or operate, private run treatment and rehabilitation centers like VGADA Detox centre.
He said that the agency had gone further to see how other states could be mobilised to support rehabilitated and treated people with skills acquisition as well as getting them reintegrated to the society.
According to him, So one of the things we do in drug demand reduction is to bring help to those who need help and those who need treatment.
“We choose to raise awareness first, because prevention is better than cure. So when the people know about the dangers of what they are about to abuse or what they are abusing, then they may likely restrain themselves.
“And that way, they would have prevented themselves from going into harmful way and also, for those that are already abusing these illicit substances, again, we also have a responsibility to provide help for them.
“And that’s why we have treatment and counseling centers across the country. We have 30 of them across our Commands,’’ he said.
Marwa said that one of the things the agency had also introduced in addressing drug demand reduction for those who may be afraid of stigmatisation or being judged was the toll free helpline 080010203040.
He said that drug abusers tends to be scared of arrests adding that there were a lot of them who were afraid to go out to a treatment centre to seek for help.
“One of the things the agency had also done to encourage them to seek help is setting up a call center with a toll free helpline, 0800 10203040.
“With that helpline, anybody can sit in the comfort of their homes in any part of the country, make a call to the toll free helpline.
“And there at the other end, we have our experts like counsellors, Psychiatrists, Psychologists, Psychotherapists among others to assist these people.
“If they check and realise some of them need to be sent or refered to rehabilitation centre, they do so and also follow up in the course of their treatment,’’ he said.
Speaking on the forthcoming National Youths Conference on drug abuse by VGADA, Marwa commended the centre for the good work and initiatives done so far in ensuring proper treatment and rehabilitation of drug users in Nigeria.
He said, “I want to give thumbs up to VGADA for the initiative. This is not their first in this regard, they have been working and partnering with the agency to advance the course of better or public health.
“We are happy they are doing this again to bring the youths together at a conference to teach them all they need to know concerning drug abuse and to guide them on dangers of substance abuse.
“That is why we are supporting them and as a result, we encourage all our youths to make it a date on June 28,’’he said.
Earlier, Omeiza said that the centre was committed to the wellbeing of citizens, and would do whatever it takes to eliminate or drastically reduce to the barest minimum, the use of illicit drugs and substances across the country.
He said that the forthcoming National Youths Conference was part of programmes to mark the 2024 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.
He also said that World Drug Day, which was celebrated annually on June 26 was to strengthen action and cooperation in achieving a world free of drug abuse.
“Our organisation does not castigate people who abuse drugs but we do our work creatively with distinction and honor.
“Our role is to make a positive impact in every community so that our nation will be a better place to live, work and we will not relent,’’ he said.(NAN) (http://www.nannews.ng)
ICA/OIF/SH
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Edited by Ifeyinwa Okonkwo/Sadiya Hamza

June 8, 2024
11 governors bag ISSS Security Excellence Awards
11 governors bag ISSS Security Excellence Awards
Awards
By Sumaila Ogbaje
Abuja, June 8, 2024 (NAN) Eleven governors have been selected for the Institute of Security and Strategic Studies (ISSS)’s Excellence Award.
The Registrar of the Institute, Dr Sunday Idakwoji, in a statement on Friday in Abuja, said the award would be presented to the governors on Nov. 23.
The award for Best Governor on Security and Humanitarian Services of the Year, he said, will be bestowed on Gov. Babagana Zulum of Borno for his exceptional leadership and innovative strategies in improving security and providing humanitarian aid in one of Nigeria’s most challenging regions.
According to him, Gov. Ahmadu Fintiri of Adamawa will be honoured for his dedication to maintaining peace and security while implementing comprehensive humanitarian initiatives to support vulnerable communities.
Idakwoji said that Gov. Dikko Radda of Katsina State would be recognised as the Best Governor on Collective Security Advocate of the Year for his proactive stance on collective security measures and his efforts to foster collaboration among various security agencies to combat crime and ensure the safety of citizens.
Other governors to receive the award are; Governors Ahmad Aliu of Sokoto State, BabaJide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State, Chukwuma Soludo of Anambra, Dapo Abiodun, of Ogun, Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State, Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta, Ademola Adeleke of Osun and Siminilaye Fubara of Rivers.
Idakwoji said the institute had in 10 years of its existence been at the forefront of providing robust academic and practical education, fostering excellence in security standards, knowledge, and cooperation within the African region and globally.
He said the mission was to prepare students for the complex challenges of today’s world through meticulous training and innovative techniques, facilitating excellence in education and research, as well as forging lasting security partnerships across nations and cultures.
The registrar said the awards were aimed at recognising, honor individuals and organisations that had made significant contributions towards building a robust security architecture and strategic development in Nigeria and beyond.
He added that some serving ministers would also be recognised for their outstanding performance among other several individuals, defense and security services and corporate entities.
“Join us in celebrating these outstanding individuals and organizations that have demonstrated excellence and commitment to enhancing security and strategic development in Nigeria.
“The awards ceremony promises to be a night of recognition, celebration, and inspiration,” the registrar said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
OYS/OIF/SH
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Edited by Ifeyinwa Okonkwo/Sadiya Hamza
June 8, 2024
Otti advocates for increased fight against oil theft, illegal refinery operation
Advocacy
By Ihechinyere Chigemeri-Uwom
Nvosi(Abia), June 7, 2024(NAN) Gov. Alex Otti of Abia has emphasised the importance of cracking down on oil theft and illegal refinery operations in the state.
Otti said this on Friday when he received the Joint Taskforce Southsouth Operation Delta on a familiarisation visit in Nvosi, Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area of the state.
The governor also urged the Taskforce to intensify efforts in the fight against oil theft and illegal operation of refineries.
He said that enforcing such measures would help protect the state’s resources and foster economic stability.
He expressed displeasure over the activities of illegal refineries in the state, and warned that perpetrators of such activities would be made to face legal repercussions.
Otti urged the taskforce to treat operators of illegal refineries as enemies of the state.
“Those that operate illegal refineries and other activities, those are the enemies of the state and should be treated as such.
“Whether they are in Aba or in Ukwa or Port Harcourt or Bayelsa or any of the other 10 states where you operate, the long arms of the government must be made to catch up with them.
“For us, we do not support any illegality by anybody in any form.
“You can take it for granted that we as a government will give you all the support to carry out your operation here,” Otti said.
He also called on the Taskforce to also work to secure the Abia Innovation and Industrial Park (AIIP) at Owaza, in Ukwa West Local Government Area.
Otti said that the state government would support the taskforce in the area of logistics and intelligence sharing to make its assignment easier.
According to Otti, security remains a top priority in his administration because no meaningful development could take place in an atmosphere of insecurity.
Earlier, the Commander of the Taskforce, Rear Admiral John Okeke, said the team was in Abia to familiarise with the state as one of their areas of operations in the fight against oil theft and illegal activities within the oil bearing states.
Okeke said that part of their mandate was focused on curbing illegal activities in the oil and gas sector in Bayelsa, Rivers, Cross River, Akwa Ibom, Abia, Imo, Ondo, Anambra, Delta and Edo.
“The Federal Government thought it wise to come up with Joint Taskforce South South Operation Delta Safe with a mandate to protect oil and gas infrastructure and stem security challenges in the Niger Delta.
The Taskforce also has the mandate to stop militancy, sea robbery, crude oil theft and other forms of militancy that could impact negatively on the economic activities, with emphasis on the oil and gas sector,” he said.
Okeke expressed the willingness of the Taskforce to collaborate with the government to curb illicit activities within their areas of operation.
He appealed to the government for logistics support to enable the Taskforce to achieve its mandate.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
INA/MNA
Edited by Maureen Atuonwu
June 7, 2024
DIG charges officers on professionalism to eradicate kidnapping
DIG charges officers on professionalism to eradicate kidnapping
Police
By Muftau Ogunyemi
Akure, June 7, 2024 (NAN) Sylvester Alabi, Deputy Inspector-General of Police (DIG) in-charge of South-West, has charged police officers on professionalism to eradicate kidnapping in the zone.
Alabi made the call while addressing the officers and men of the Ondo State command on Friday in Akure.
The DIG said that his visitation was on the directive of the Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Kayode Egbetokun, to all the zonal DIGs to assess security situations in their respective zone.
Alabi said that the time had come for police officers to engage community and religious leaders to tackle criminality in the society,
He also said fighting crime in the South-West had yielded positive results, but there was the need to do more.
“When something happens unexpectedly, it is the duty of the officer to go back to the drawing board and re-strategise.
“Policing is not a tea party, it is a very serious, tedious, physical and mentally challenged job.
“So, it’s a job that entails total commitment and total dedication, because we owe members of the public a duty to secure their lives and properties.
“Generally, South-West is one of the most peaceful zone we have in the country today, but I don’t want you to be carried away so that you will not get embarrassed.
“So, its time for you to double your efforts and ensure the pocket of occasional kidnapping and occasional armed robbery being experienced becomes a thing of the past.
“We need to sit down and do a serious planning to eradicate completely any incident of kidnapping in Ondo State,” he said.
Alabi, therefore, called on police officers to imbibe the ethics of the job, saying corruption and extortion would not be condoned.
“As police officers, you can do your job and earn a good job without delving into all those unprofessional and unethical conducts.
“I am admonishing you to desist from that and it is better for you to attract goodwill for yourself from well-meaning Nigerians.
“Because if you do your job diligently and show that you a man of integrity, you will be loved by people and gain more confidence and trust from people,” he said.
In his speech, Abiodun Asabi, Assistant Inspector-General of Police (AIG) in-charge of zone 17, assured the DIG that the zone would continue to fall in line with the agenda of the IGP.
“We are not going to rest on accolades that our zone is the most peaceful in the country, we will continue to push our zone more to be free from any form of criminality,” he said.
In his address, Abayomi Oladipo, Commissioner of Police in Ondo State, appreciated the DIG’s visit, saying that the command would continue to engage officers and men on professional conduct for effective service delivery.
“Our display of professionalism during the governorship primaries in the state came to bare as we were non-partisan and followed the guiding principles as laid down in the electoral act.
“Currently, the command has mapped out plans to ensure that the state is devoid of actions and inactions that can heat up the polity.
Abayomi explained that he had a meeting with political stakeholders and all relevant organisations involved in electoral activities, and called on politicians to warn their supporters against causing chaos in the state. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
OMA/AYO/IKU
Edited by Ayodeji Alabi/Tayo Ikujuni
June 7, 2024
Osun: NSCDC arrests man for allegedly stealing school roofing sheets
Osun: NSCDC arrests man for allegedly stealing school roofing sheets
School
By Olajide Idowu
Osogbo, June 7, 2024 (NAN) The Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Osun Command, has arrested a 40-year-old man, Jide Fadipe, for allegedly stealing roofing sheets of a government primary school in Ilesa.
Mr Michael Adaralewa, the State Commandant of NSCDC, in a statement on Friday said the suspect, a resident of Ilaje-Area, BJ4 Ilesa, was arrested for vandalizing a public primary school property.
“A member of the public from Ilesa earlier reported to the command that some unscrupulous elements had been vandalizing the school building by removing the iron sheets and other valuables in the school.
“The command subsequently mounted surveillance around the school area to apprehend the perpetrators.
“On Tuesday, the suspect was seen around 5.00a.m removing the roofing sheets of the school.
“He thereafter moved the stolen items down to his house and was apprehended while he was trying to sell the materials to metal scraps buyers in Ilesa,” Adaralewa said.
He said the offence committed by the suspect contravened Section 451 of the Criminal Code Law, Cap 34, Laws of Osun.
The commandant said that the suspect would face the full wrath of the law to serve as deterrent to others who are fond of destroying public property. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
ID/IKU
Edited by Tayo Ikujuni
June 7, 2024
NAF to establish base in Abia
NAF to establish base in Abia
Base
By Ihechinyere Chigemeri-Uwom
Nvosi (Abia) June 7, 2024 (NAN) The Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshal Hassan Abubakar, says the
Nigerian Air Force (NAF) is ready to build a base in Abia.
Abubakar made this known on Friday when he paid a courtesy visit to Gov. Alex Otti in Nvosi, Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area.
He said that the decision to institute the presence of NAF in Abia was informed by the need to boost security in the state and the South-East Geopolitical Zone.
Abubakar said that he was in Abia to engage in meaningful dialogue with the state government and explore opportunities for partnership between NAF and Abia State.
He appealed to the state government for a parcel of land to facilitate the placement of NAF’s facilities.
According to him, this will enable the Force’s presence to provide effective and decisive kinetic response to threats, enhance national security and contribute to security in Abia and environs.
“I want to appreciate your foresight in requesting for the presence of the Nigerian Air Force in Abia.
“This will not only boost security of the entire state, but would provide invaluable support in emergency response, disaster management and community development initiatives.
“We’ll take advantage of the opportunity to further extend our reach in the employment of airpower response, especially in Abia, and by extension, the South-East region,” he said.
Abubakar commended the governor for his visionary leadership style and judicious management of public resources, and the focus on improving the living standards of the people.
He also commiserated with the government on the unfortunate incident which led to the loss of five soldiers at the Obikabia Junction in Aba.
Abubakar advocated for effective implementation of measures that would facilitate improvement of civil-military relations, for better socio-economic growth.
Responding, Otti described the approval for the establishment of an Air Force Base in Abia as a welcome development, and promised that the government would provide land for NAF operations.
He said that a temporary site would be provided in Umuahia to serve as its take off location in addition to an operational vehicle, a residence and other logistics.
Otti expressed confidence that the establishment of an Air Force Base in Abia would further complement government’s efforts to enhance security of lives and property in the state.
According to him, the relative peace experienced in the state is an outcome of the efforts of the government and security agencies.
He said that security had remained a top priority and Abia Government would support the Nigerian Air Force to perform optimally in the state.
Otti described the visit as timely, especially with the Federal Government’s approval for the establishment of an Airstrip in the state. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
INA/FON/
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Edited by Florence Onuegbu and Abiemwense Moru
June 7, 2024
COAS to soldiers : Be creative in tackling security challenges

From the left Maj.-Gen. Mayirenso Saraso, GOC 1 Division, middle the Commandant, Warrant Officer Academy, Brig.-Gen. Auwal Mahmuda at the academy’s graduation on Friday in Kaduna

COAS to soldiers : Be creative in tackling security challenges
Graduation
By Muhammad Tijjani
Jaji(Kaduna State), June. 7, 2024(NAN) The Chief of Army Staff(COAS), Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja has officers and men to be innovative and creative in tackling and resolving the security challenges currently confronting Nigeria.
Lagbaja gave the charge at the graduation ceremony of 80 Warrant Officers at the Warrant Officers’ Academy Course 43 on Friday at Jaji Military Cantonment, Kaduna State.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN), that the Army chief was represented by the General Officer Commanding (GOC) 1 Division, Nigerian Army (NA), Maj.-Gen. Mayirenso Saraso.
He said, “This graduation marks yet another milestone in the history of the academy and its contributions to the ongoing transformation efforts of the Nigerian Army (NA) through effective training of Senior Non Commissioned Officers, SNCOs.
“That will enable them to better discharge their responsibilities and bridge the gap between the soldiers and officers cadre.
“The role played by this institution is more critical at this time when our country is faced with myriads of security challenges.”
Lagbaja said the academy has so far been able to achieve this through focused training that has prepared its graduates to confront challenges in line with his philosophy.
He said, “To transform the NA into a well-trained, equipped and highly motivated force towards achieving our constitutional responsibilities within a joint environment.
”I wish to congratulate the graduands for their commitment and diligence in ensuring the success of this course.”
He charged them to bridge the knowledge and leadership gaps between the officers and soldiers in their various units and formations.
”Accordingly, it is hoped that the training you have undergone will reflect in your confidence, comportment, skills and overall bearing while discharging your responsibilities in the field.
“I have no doubts that you are now better prepared to earnestly contribute in ensuring better administration and more efficient operations in your respective
units and formations,” the COAS added.
Lagbaja also charged them to employ the knowledge and skills acquired to project their leadership and managerial capabilities for the benefit of the Army and the Armed Forces.
“I am privy to the fact that for the first time, four personnel of the Nigerian Air force are among the graduands for today’s ceremony.
“I am equally aware that among the graduates is a personnel of the Armed Forces of the Republic of Liberia while another Senior Non-Commissioned Officer from Liberia will be for the next course in July, ” Lagbaja said.
He urged that hands must continue to be on the deck to ensure that the Nigerian Army continues to achieve its mission.
”This is winning all the land battles in the defence of the country’s territorial integrity and protection of its interest thereby providing the required security for our dear nation, ” Lagbaja said.
The COAS appreciated President Bola Tinubu for his encouragement and continued support to the Nigerian Army in its resolve at repositioning the army for effective service delivery.
” Indeed, Mr President’s continued support to the Nigerian Army has significantly enhanced the combat effectiveness and morale of troops, “Lagbaja said.
Group photograph of the participants of Warrant Officer Academy course 43 at Jaji Military Cantonment on Friday in Kaduna.
Earlier, the Commandant of the academy, Brig.-Gen. Auwal Mahmuda , said the course was assembled in Jan. 8.
Mahmuda said it comprised 80 students made up of 75 Warrant Officers and SNCOs of the NA, 4 Warrant
Officers and SNCOs from the NAF and a Master Sergeant from the Republic of Liberia.
He said the 22-week course covered intense field training designed to enhance the capacity of warrant officers and Senior non-commissioned officers.
Mahmuda also said this was also aimed at developing the leadership and management skills of the students.
This is in order to equip them to efficiently interpret and communicate command decisions down the line, thereby bridging the gap between the officers and soldiers’ cadre.
Mahmuda said , “We shall continue to improve on the instructional curricular, facilities and environment in order to ensure that the training offered here is mission-oriented and beneficial.”
The commandant appreciated the Army chief for the tremendous support given to the Academy.
“Most recent intervention aimed at providing an access road, landscaping and car park for the newly constructed student hostel is greatly appreciated, “Mahmuda said.
NAN reports that awards were presented to the soldiers who distinguished themselves during the course.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng).
Cross section of the participants of warrant officers academy course 43.
TJ/BRM
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Edited by Bashir Rabe Mani
June 7, 2024
Police arrest suspected vandal on Third Mainland Bridge
The suspect
Arrest
By Deborah Akpede
Lagos, June 7, 2024 (NAN) The Police Rapid Response Squad (RRS) has arrested an 18-year-old suspected vandal, Mubarak Abdullahi, for allegedly stealing LED road stud light on the newly renovated Third Mainland Bridge.
Mr Jubril Gawat, the Senior Special Assistant on New Media to Gov. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, disclosed this in a post he shared on his X handle, @Mr_JAGs, on Friday.
Gawat said that the suspect was arrested around 10.00 a.m. on Friday.
“The suspect, living in Makoko, had at the time of his arrest, removed 10 of the LED road stud light screwed to the road to enhance the visibility of road users.
“The suspect was caught red-handed by the operatives on patrol of the bridge around 10.00 a.m today,” he said.
According to him, RRS Commander, CSP Olayinka Egbeyemi, weeks ago, deployed bike riders on 24 hours security patrol in the area to monitor traffic and infrastructure on the bridge. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
DOA/FAA
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Edited by Folasade Adeniran
June 7, 2024
Police arrest 2 men over alleged production of adulterated drinks
Police arrest 2 men over alleged production of adulterated drinks
Arrest
By Moses Omorogieva
Lagos, June 7, 2024 (NAN)The Police Command in Lagos State, said it had arrested two men for allegedly producing adulterated alcoholic drinks at Oko-Arin Market on the Lagos Island.
The command’s spokesperson, SP Benjamin Hundeyin, confirmed the arrest to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Friday in Lagos.
Hundeyin said that police detectives arrested the suspects at about 6.00 pm on Tuesday, following credible information “that a group of boys were sighted at the Oko-Arin Market allegedly producing fake alcoholic drinks.
He told NAN that the Commissioner of Police Tactical Team, Eko, immediately mobilised to the scene.
According to him, the team affected the arrest of the two suspects, aged 31 and 41, in the act, while other members of the gang escaped.
“Items recovered from the suspects included five cartons of Jack Daniels Drinks, two cartons of Black Barrel drink, one carton of Williams Lawson drink and one carton of Jameson drink.
“Police also recovered one carton of Black Label drink, one carton of Remy Martins, six cartons of empty and Glenfiddich bottles
“Others are one carton of empty Divin Bardar drink, one carton of empty Volka drink, as well as quantities of assorted labels and corks for producing drinks.
“Preliminary investigation revealed that the suspects often sold the illegal adulterated drinks to their customers in Cotonou, Benin Republic,” he said.
Hundeyin said that investigation was ongoing. (NAN)( (www.nannews.ng)
MIO/KOO/JPE
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Edited by Kevin Okunzuwa/Joseph Edeh

June 7, 2024
32,402 drug users counselled, treated in 3 years nationwide- Marwa
The Chairman, National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) retired, Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa with the Executive Director, Vanguard Against Drug Abuse (VGADA) detox centre, Dr Hope Omeiza
32,402 drug users counselled, treated in 3 years nationwide- Marwa
Drugs
By Ibironke Ariyo
Abuja, June 7, 2024 (NAN) The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) says no fewer than 32,402 drug users have been counselled and treated from January 2021 to March 2024 across the country.
The NDLEA Chairman, retired Brig.-Gen. Buba Marwa, said this when he received the Executive Director, Vanguard Against Drug Abuse (VGADA) Detox Centre, Dr Hope Omeiza, and his team on Friday in Abuja.
The News Agency Of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the VGADA Detox Centre, a rehabilitation centre in Abuja, is a leading provider of addiction treatment and recovery services in Nigeria.
The centre is holding a National Youth Conference on June 28 in commemoration of the World Drug Day celebrated globally every June 26, in Abuja.
Marwa, who was represented by the Director, Media and Advocacy, NDLEA, Mr Femi Babafemi, said that the agency had also secured 9,034 convictions with over 12,000 other cases going on in Court.
Marwa said: “There is no denying the fact that indeed, there is a misconception about the role of the agency, especially as it concerns drug demand reduction.
“I like to put it on record that indeed the agency has two key roles, that is, drug supply reduction and drug demand reduction.
“And when you look at what we have done in the area of demand reduction, I can even almost say it far outweighs or surpasses what we have done in drug supply reduction.
“But because the supply reduction has to do with arrest, seizures, prosecution of offenders and their convictions, sending them to jail, confiscation of their assets and other funds in their bank account through court order. So, quite a lot of people believe that’s all we do.
“But indeed, beyond that, let me put it this way, maybe to be very clear this way, if you look at the last three years, the agency has counselled and treated over 32,000 in our facilities nationwide.”
He said that out of the 32,000, the agency secured 9,034 convictions with over 12,000 other cases going on in Court.
Marwa said that one of the things the agency did in drug demand reduction was to raise awareness about the problem of substance abuse in the country.
He added that the frequent awareness led to the creation of a social advocacy platform precisely on June 26, 2021 at the presidential villa.
“The platform is called War Against Drug Abuse (WADA), social advocacy platform to raise awareness nationwide about substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking.”
According to him, it is also to mobilise everybody, including stakeholders, all citizens, irrespective of their age and status, to buy in and take ownership of the fight against substance abuse.
“The agency is also working with other organisations, NGOs like VGADA detox centre and a lot of other stakeholders, to engage with the people, to engage with everybody in the society.
“This is starting from the family level, to the schools, students, communities, faith-based organisations like churches and mosques.
“Also, those in the motor parks, those in traditional institutions and the palaces among others are not left out,” he said.
Earlier, Omeiza said that VGADA Detox Centre had team of like minds dedicated to offer selfless services for the peace, unity and progress of the country in the present generation and future ones.
He said that the centre remained committed to inculcating in youths, the need to be aware of harmful practices within their environment and the general society.
This, he said included informing the youth to stay away from drugs and substance abuse so as to keep themselves and the society safe. (NAN) (http://www.nannews.ng)
ICA/FAA
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Edited by Folasade Adeniran
June 7, 2024