By: Manoah Kikekon
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) marked the United Nations International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking with a massive sensitization campaign at Model College, Kakon, Badagry, followed by a peaceful walk against drug abuse.
With the theme “Breaking the Chains: Prevention, Treatment, and Recovery for All,” the event aimed to educate students on the dangers of drug abuse and encourage a drug-free lifestyle.
Mrs. Rita Ajoko, Deputy Commander of Narcotics and Acting Area Commander of NDLEA Seme Special Area Command, emphasized the importance of early prevention.
“This is a preventive measure to ensure youths do not get involved in drugs. If we catch them young, they can even correct others. But if we fail, they become threats to society. For those already addicted, we rehabilitate them to reintegrate into civil society,” she said.
She noted that targeted sensitization programs in schools, markets, and organizations have significantly reduced drug abuse rates in the area and called for more stakeholder collaboration to sustain the fight.
Assistant Commander of Narcotics (ACN) Koya Afolabi, Principal Staff Officer (Sensitization), urged students to reject drug abuse, stating:
“The more people say no to drugs, the lesser the burden on Nigeria. If you and I refuse drugs, the ‘masters of death’ drug dealers will run out of business.”
He warned against non-medical drug use, stressing that even prescribed drugs must be taken strictly under doctor’s supervision. “It’s best not to start at all than to struggle to stop,” he added.
Mr. Ayeni Kolawole Ibrahim, Principal of Lagos State Model Senior College, Kakon, commended the initiative, calling it "timely and impactful."
“The lectures were useful for both students and teachers. We will reinforce these messages to ensure students stay drug-free. If youths truly understand the damage drugs cause, they will avoid them,” he stated.
The event concluded with a peaceful walk through Badagry West LCDA, where NDLEA officials, students, and community members raised awareness on drug abuse dangers, reinforcing the call for collective action against illicit substances.