President Of Nigeria
Tinubu proposes multiplied effort against drug abuse in Nigeria. Mr Tinubu emphasized the importance of educating residents, particularly the young and vulnerable, about the risks of drug misuse and the need to end stigma and discrimination.
President Bola Tinubu has praised the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for its efforts to combat the country’s drug trafficking problem.
Mr Tinubu delivered the accolade on Monday in Abuja at the 2023 United Nations International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Drug Trafficking.
The topic of the event is “People First: Ending Stigma and Discrimination and Strengthening Prevention.”
Mr Tinubu, who was represented at the occasion by the Federation’s Secretary to Government, George Akume, said the NDLEA officers had maintained their energy in the war against drugs, adding that news of their onslaught were frequent.
“Notable achievements of NDLEA officers and men who have continued to show valour and vigour in drug law enforcement deserve special mention.” The NDLEA’s onslaught on drug dealers is widespread knowledge.
“I commend the officers and men of the agency for injecting new life into our drug-control efforts and demonstrating a rare sense of purpose,” he said.
The president stated that his administration would continue to assist the agency in reaching new heights.
“I hereby reiterate this administration’s unwavering support for the continuation of drug control efforts in the country, as well as their patriotic efforts to keep the country safe,” he said.
Mr Tinubu stated that the government is resolved to combat the drug problem, and he asked the agency to work with state governments, civil society organizations, and other relevant and local agencies to address the issue.
He praised Nigeria’s development partners for their ongoing assistance to the country in the fight against drugs.
“I urge everyone to step up efforts to combat drug abuse and trafficking in the country.” We value and recognize our local and international partners, particularly the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime.
“We also thank the European Union for funding the ‘Response to Drug and Related Organized Crime in Nigeria’ project through its 10th European Development Fund.” That remains a bright example of development partners joining the Nigerian government’s attempt to rid the country of drug trafficking and organized crime,” the president said.
He also emphasized the importance of continuing to educate residents, particularly the young and vulnerable, about the risks of drug usage, as well as the elimination of stigma and discrimination.
“We must provide our youth with the knowledge and skills they need to make informed decisions about their lives, as well as the resources they require to avoid becoming victims of drug abuse.”
“We must also assist those suffering from drug addiction by providing them with treatment and the necessary support to help them overcome their addiction.” In the face of these issues, it is critical that we take a people-centered strategy that prioritizes prevention and treatment as fundamental pillars of our response, according to Mr Tinubu.
Tajudeen Abbas, Speaker of the House of Representatives, complimented Buba Marwa, Chairman/CEO of the NDLEA, for his agency leadership in his speech.
He stated unequivocally that Nigeria, in collaboration with other committed nations, is playing a leading role in strengthening action and cooperation toward attaining a drug-free world.
He stated that a collaborative attitude is required to raise awareness of the challenges of drug misuse and illicit drug trafficking, as well as to implement strategic action plans to limit their spread in Nigeria, Africa, and around the world.
“It is my considered belief that this should not be viewed as a one-time event; the treatment of drug users and their families with empathy, respect, and dignity should be ingrained in the strategic approach to this ongoing fight that extends beyond this year’s celebration.”
“Drug addiction is not a death sentence in and of itself.” As a result, people of society who are struggling with drug addiction deserve our support and encouragement to help them overcome their addiction,” Mr Abbas said.
According to the speaker, drug misuse is a big worldwide health concern that many nations face.
According to him, the UNODC’s 2022 World Drug Report said that around 284 million persons aged 15 to 64 took drugs worldwide in 2020.
“This figure is said to represent a 26% increase over the previous decade under review,” he noted. Drug usage is said to be higher among young people in Nigeria and many other nations than among the older generation.”