Driven by Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s vision for a drug-free Delta under his MORE agenda, the State Orientation and Communications Bureau, led by Director-General Dr. Fred Latimore Oghenesivbe, in collaboration with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), continued its statewide anti-drug campaign on Day 5.
The campaign team visited Utagbe-Ogbe Technical College, Utagbe-Ogbe; Alaka Grammar School, Ozoro; St. Michael's College, Oleh; and Emevor Mixed Secondary School, Emevor.
Assistant State Commander of the NDLEA, Mr. Silas Osagie, engaged students in an interactive session, educating them on illicit substances and the agency’s role beyond enforcement. He assured students that NDLEA is available for counseling and rehabilitation, urging those struggling with drug addiction to seek help.
"While you may have seen our officers arresting drug dealers in your communities, know that we do much more than enforcement," Osagie said. "We actively engage in counseling, education, and rehabilitation of individuals seeking to overcome addiction."
Osagie warned against government-prohibited drugs, urging students to avoid locations where they are sold and recognize the signs of drug abuse in peers through changes in dressing, behavior, and lifestyle. He emphasized that codeine is a banned substance in Nigeria and should not be misused.
Assistant Superintendent of Narcotics, Mr. Sani Jaafar Bebeji, explained the effects of drug abuse, highlighting both legal and illegal substances. He stressed that even commonly used drugs like tramadol can be harmful if taken without a doctor’s prescription.
"Drug abuse leads to mental instability, liver damage, imprisonment, and even death," Bebeji stated. "Many crimes are linked to substance abuse, which is why we must take this campaign seriously."
A highlight of the event came when a student composed a spontaneous song with the theme: "Say No to Drug Abuse and Yes to Life." The energetic performance resonated with the audience, reinforcing the campaign’s message.
School principals commended the initiative and pledged continued support.
"The initiative is much needed in our schools, and we will continue to encourage students to stay away from harmful drugs," said the Principal of Utagbe-Ogbe Technical College.
"We will build a strong WADA club, and this campaign will help eradicate drug abuse," added the Principal of Alaka Grammar School.
The "Drug-Free Delta" campaign will continue its sensitization activities on Tuesday, February 11, 2025, reaching more schools and communities across the state.
