First Lady of Borno State Falmata Babagana Umar Zulum has called for increased efforts to combat drug abuse and illicit trafficking in the state.
The governor’s wife made the call yesterday during the commemoration of the United Nations International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, which has the theme “Evidence is Clear: Invest in Prevention.”
The state commandant of the National Drugs Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Mr Iliyasu Mani disclosed that the command arrested 1066 suspects and seized 3,577.3 kilogrammes of illicit drugs in the state.
Continuing, Dr Falmata Zulum highlighted the devastating effects of drug abuse on society, the economy, and human health and reiterated the state government’s commitment to addressing the issue as a matter of emergency.
She also stressed the need for non-discriminatory policy solutions centred around people, health, and human rights and called for strengthened synergy and cooperation among stakeholders to curb the illicit drug trade in the state.
The First Lady also explained the importance of providing science-based treatment and support services for drug users and treating them with compassion and respect rather than punishment and stigma.
She called on religious leaders to incorporate messages against drug abuse into their sermons and services to raise awareness and encourage collective action against the menace.
Earlier, the state Commandant of the NDLEA, Mr Iliyasu Mani, explained that this year’s theme, “Evidence is Clear: Invest in Prevention,” encourages the agency to intensify its efforts in the fight against drug abuse through a scientific, evidence-based approach.
According to the commandant, the agency has prioritised prevention and treatment, citing the success of evidence-based drug prevention programmes in protecting individuals and communities.
He said drug abuse has a devastating impact on society, particularly on young people who suffer the worst effects of substance use disorders.
Stakeholders at the event commended the NDLEA for its effective collaboration with relevant authorities in the state for effective delivery. They also advocated for the establishment of a drug rehabilitation centre in the state as a result of the over 14 years of insurgency and the rate of drug abuse cases in the state.