By Ibironke Ariyo
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), FCT Command, has intensified its community engagement efforts to combat drug abuse and related crimes in the Federal Capital Territory.
The FCT Commander of the agency, Mr. Kabir Tsakuwa disclosed this in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja on Tuesday.
Tsakuwa explained that the command to combat drug abuse and related crimes in the area has established close partnership with local communities, traditional rulers, religious leaders and other stakeholders in the WADA programmes.
The aim is to create awareness on the dangers of drug abuse and encourage the youth to adopt a healthy lifestyle, he said.
According to him, through our outreach programmes and support visits, the Command has been able to mobilise community leaders and members to support our drug prevention efforts.
“These community-based initiatives have proven effective in preventing drug abuse and promoting healthy lifestyles among the youth.
“In Jikwoyi, for example, the Command, with the support of the traditional ruler, His Royal Highness Bawa S. Jetta, the Esu Jikwoyi, organised a drug awareness campaign for the community.
“The campaign provided the Command with a platform to sensitise the public on the risks associated with drug abuse and the importance of seeking help for those suffering from addiction.”
The NDLEA leader said similar campaigns had been conducted in other communities, including Kwali, demonstrating the Command’s commitment to community-led initiatives to prevent drug abuse.
Tsakuwa said these initiatives have helped raise awareness of the dangers of drug use and promote a culture of prevention and support.
He added that the command’s community engagement efforts also include working with local organizations and groups to provide support services to people suffering from addiction.
“These services include counseling, rehabilitation and reintegration programs that have proven effective in helping people overcome their addiction and reintegrate into the community,” he said.
He urged the public to support their efforts by reporting suspected cases of drug abuse and providing information that could help prevent drug-related crimes.
He assured the audience of his continued commitment to drug prevention and promoting healthy lifestyles among youth.
