Nigeria’s President, Bola Tinubu has hailed the achievements of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in curbing the menace of drug trafficking in the country.
President Tinubu gave the commendation in Abuja on Monday, at an event commemorating this year’s International Day against drug abuse and illicit drug trafficking.
The President, who was represented by the Secretary to Government of the federation, George Akume, said: “Of special mention are the notable achievements of the NDLEA officers and men who have continued to show valour and demonstrate vigour in drug law enforcement. The news of the onslaught by NDLEA on drug traffickers is commonplace.
“I commend the officers and men of the agency for the freshness injected into our drug control efforts and show of rare sense of purpose.”
The Nigerian leader restated the current administration’s support for the NDLEA in order to achieve more.
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“I hereby reiterate this administration’s unwavering support to NDLEA for the sustenance of drug control efforts in the country and their patriotic efforts to keep the country safe,” he added.
He said the Nigerian government is poised to tackle drug menace and its associated consequences. He therefore implored a strong collaboration with State governments, International and Civil Society Organizations and all stakeholders to tame the monster.
President Tinubu used the occasion to appreciate Nigeria’s Development Partners for their continuous support to Nigeria in the area of drugs control.
“I recommend that everyone should redouble efforts to combat drug abuse and trafficking in the country. We appreciate and acknowledge our local and international partners, especially the United Nations Office of Drugs and Crime.
“We also appreciate the European Union for funding the project: ‘Response Drug and Related Organized Crime in Nigeria’ under its 10th European Development Fund. That remains a shining example of developmental partners who have keyed into the Nigerian government’s effort to ensure Nigeria is free from drug trafficking and organized crime,” said the President.
President Tinubu emphasized the need to continue to educate citizens, especially the young and other vulnerable, on the dangers of drug abuse and the need to stop stigma and discrimination.
He said: “We must empower our youths with the knowledge and skills they need to make informed decisions about their lives and provide them with the resources they need to avoid falling victims to drug abuse.
“We must also support those who are struggling with drug addiction and provide them with treatment and the necessary support they need to overcome their addiction. In the face of these challenges, it is imperative that we adopt a people centred approach that focuses on prevention and treatment as key pillars of our response.”
The theme for this year’s United Nations International Drug Day is: “People First: Stop Stigma and Discrimination, Strengthening Prevention.”
