The Edo State Government has reiterated its commitment to combating drug abuse and illicit drug trafficking through sustained awareness campaigns, prevention initiatives, and community-based engagement programmes aimed at fostering a healthier, drug-free society.
Addressing journalists at a press conference in Benin City on Monday, the Chairperson of the Edo State Drug Control Committee and Coordinator, Office of the First Lady, Edesili Anani, reaffirmed the administration’s resolve to advance drug abuse prevention, strengthen rehabilitation services, and enhance enforcement measures against illicit drug trafficking across the state.
Anani noted that the 2026 global theme, “The World Drug Problem: Persisting Issues, New Challenges and Innovative Responses”, underscores the imperative for coordinated action among governments, institutions, stakeholders, and communities to address evolving substance abuse and drug-related criminality.
She identified poverty, unemployment, inadequate education, and social inequality as primary contributors to drug abuse and trafficking. Anani emphasised the need to mitigate these root causes through comprehensive prevention strategies, treatment, rehabilitation, and social support programmes.
Expressing concern over the proliferation of new psychoactive substances, Anani advocated for innovative, multi-sectoral approaches that integrate law enforcement with education, public enlightenment, and active community participation.
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She further called on parents, educators, healthcare professionals, community leaders, non-governmental organisations, and the general public to collaborate in promoting healthy lifestyles and preventing substance abuse among youths.
The chairperson disclosed that the state has scheduled a series of interventions, including public awareness campaigns, school sensitisation programmes, and community outreach initiatives designed to educate residents on the hazards of drug abuse and equip them to make informed decisions.
Also speaking, Commander of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) Edo State Command, Mitchell Ofoyeju, described substance abuse as a significant public health challenge with far-reaching social and economic implications.
He stressed the necessity of continuous awareness campaigns and behavioural change initiatives to reduce demand for illicit substances.
Ofoyeju added that modern and innovative strategies are essential to counter emerging drug threats, including the increasing abuse of shisha and other harmful psychoactive substances.
The Commissioner for Health, Cyril Oshiomhole, reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to strengthening mental health service delivery, expanding rehabilitation facilities, and implementing evidence-based interventions to reduce substance abuse and improve public health outcomes statewide.
The campaign, according to officials, seeks to raise public consciousness on the dangers of drug abuse and illicit trafficking while mobilising collective responsibility toward building safer, healthier, and drug-free communities in Edo State.
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