Oyebanji Calls For More Advocacy Against Drug Abuse Among Youths

Ekiti State governor, Mr Biodun Oyebanji, has stressed the need for more advocacy against the menace of drug abuse describing the prevalent act as a silent epidemic.

He said the devastating effects of drugs had led many addicts to psychological and emotional trauma leading to the truncation of their destinies.

The governor spoke in Lagos while unveiling a book titled, “Kick the Habit”, authored by Eno-Udoma Eniang.

He therefore called for a greater level of advocacy, collaboration, and awareness campaigns to combat the growing menace of illicit drugs, particularly among youths in the country.

Governor Oyebanji said there is a need to promote a drug-free society by partnering with stakeholders to sensitise communities against substance abuse.

The governor highlighted his administration’s efforts to combat the menace, particularly through anti-drug campaigns, community outreach, rehabilitation and enforcement against illicit substances.

He noted that security reports showed that many users had moved from marijuana to harder drugs, emphasising the need for government and stakeholders to act urgently to protect young Nigerians and support their rehabilitation- physically, medically, and spiritually.

‎”Behind every abuse, there is a personality, that personality has a message, if care is not taken, that personality, an individual makes a family, families make a community, community makes a state and state makes up a nation.”

The governor stressed that law enforcement agencies cannot solve the problem alone, calling for collaborative involvement of religious leaders, traditional rulers and parents.

The governor commended the publication of the book, saying it would contribute to the betterment of society, adding that tackling illicit drugs is about prevention and must be addressed holistically.

The author of the book, Dr Eno-Udoma Eniang, said many Nigerian youths are exposed to negative influences and addiction, noting that the book provides practical insights and spiritual guidance for those affected.

Also in attendance were the governor of Akwa Ibom State, Pastor Umo Eno, represented by the commissioner for Information, Aniekan Umanah; the director-general of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) Prof Mojisola Adeyeye, represented by the director of Narcotics and Controlled Substances, Dr Rametu Momodu, and a representative of NDLEA, among others.