The Edo State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to tackling drug abuse and illicit drug trafficking through sustained awareness campaigns, prevention programmes, and community-based initiatives aimed at building a healthier and drug-free society.
Speaking at a press conference in Benin City, Chairperson of the Edo State Drug Control Committee and Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady, Mrs. Edesili Okpebholo Anani, said the state remains determined to strengthen drug abuse prevention efforts, support rehabilitation programmes, and curb the spread of illicit substances.
She explained that this year’s theme, “The World Drug Problem: Persisting Issues, New Challenges and Innovative Responses,” highlights the need for governments, institutions, communities, and other stakeholders to work together in addressing the changing nature of substance abuse and drug-related crimes.
Mrs. Anani identified poverty, unemployment, poor access to education, and social inequality as some of the key factors fueling drug abuse and trafficking, stressing that long-term solutions must include prevention, treatment, rehabilitation, and social support programmes.
She also raised concerns over the growing use of new psychoactive substances and called for innovative strategies that combine law enforcement with education, public sensitisation, and active community involvement.
The Chairperson urged parents, teachers, healthcare workers, community leaders, non-governmental organisations, and residents to play a role in promoting healthy lifestyles and protecting young people from substance abuse.
According to her, the state government has lined up several activities, including school sensitisation programmes, public awareness campaigns, and community outreach initiatives to educate residents on the dangers of drug abuse and encourage informed decision-making.
Also speaking, the Commander of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Edo State, Mitchell Ofoyeju, described substance abuse as a serious public health concern with far-reaching social and economic consequences.
He said sustained awareness efforts and behavioural change campaigns are necessary to reduce demand for illicit drugs, adding that emerging threats such as the abuse of shisha and other harmful substances require modern and innovative responses.
The Commissioner for Health, Dr. Cyril Oshiomhole, reiterated the ministry’s commitment to expanding mental health services, strengthening rehabilitation programmes, and implementing evidence-based interventions aimed at reducing substance abuse and improving public health outcomes across Edo State.
The campaign is expected to raise awareness about the dangers of drug abuse and mobilise collective action towards creating safer, healthier, and drug-free communities across the state.
