By Akpos Oghenetega,
Delta State Government has launched a statewide campaign against drug abuse and illicit substance use in secondary schools and higher institutions, as part of efforts to safeguard the future of young people.
The campaign, themed "No Drugs, Healthy Living for a Greater Future," is spearheaded by the State Orientation and Communications Bureau in collaboration with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and other stakeholders.
Speaking at the launch in Unity Hall, Government House, Asaba, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, represented by Commissioner for Health, Dr. Joseph Onojaeme, revealed that the state government is considering making drug testing a prerequisite for students seeking admission into higher institutions.
Citing a study published in the African Journal of Drug and Alcohol Studies, the governor noted that illicit drug use among youths has been linked to truancy, stealing, and other deviant behaviors.
"Starting from secondary schools across the state, the Drug-Free Delta campaign will also extend to institutions of higher learning. As the NDLEA Commander suggested, we will consider introducing drug testing kits as part of admission requirements for higher institutions. Additionally, we will extend the campaign to primary schools," Onojaeme stated.
He also disclosed that the government is working to complete a rehabilitation center at Kwale Central Hospital, which will provide counseling, rehabilitation, and skill acquisition programs for individuals affected by drug abuse.
The Director-General of the State Orientation and Communications Bureau, Dr. Oghenesivbe Latimore, emphasized that the campaign aims to raise awareness about the dangers of drug abuse and equip young people with the knowledge to make informed decisions.
"The rising wave of drug abuse among young people is alarming. This campaign is a proactive approach to addressing the menace by educating, sensitizing, and empowering youths," Oghenesivbe stated.
Echoing this, State NDLEA Commander, Barr. Abubakar Wada, highlighted the agency's ongoing efforts, including operations targeting cannabis farms, destruction of illicit drugs, and reducing supply and demand.
He further explained that drug testing in tertiary institutions would help identify affected students and provide necessary counseling and rehabilitation.
Various stakeholders, including the Speaker of the Delta State House of Assembly, represented by Majority Leader Engr. Emeka Nwaobi, delivered goodwill messages, urging students to stay away from drug abuse to secure their future.
