...Oborevwori to Flag Off Drug Free Delta Campaign Feb 3 at Unity Hall
By Gertrude Onyekachukwu-Uteh
The Delta State Government has reiterated the importance of good parenting in curbing drug abuse and urged parents to nurture their children into responsible, drug-free adults.
Dr. Fred Oghenesivbe, Director-General of the Delta State Orientation and Communications Bureau, made this call at a joint press conference with NDLEA State Commandant, Commander Wada Abubakar, and NOA State Director, Mrs. Tracy Ikolomi, ahead of the Drug Free Delta Sensitization Campaign.
He emphasized that good parenting involves love, support, clear expectations, and discipline, fostering well-rounded individuals. He noted that Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, alarmed by rising drug abuse and declining moral standards among youths, initiated the campaign in collaboration with NDLEA and NOA to raise awareness about the dangers of substance abuse.
The campaign targets secondary schools across Delta State, starting with a flag-off by Governor Oborevwori on February 3, 2025, at Unity Hall, Government House, Asaba, and concluding on February 18, 2025, in Orerokpe, Okpe LGA.
“We will visit schools to educate students on drug abuse risks and behavioral change. The media must amplify this message. Parents also have a duty to guide their children,” Dr. Oghenesivbe urged.
He assured that the campaign would establish Wada Drug Clubs in participating schools and promote educational activities such as drama, essay, and quiz competitions.
Commander Abubakar Wada commended the state government’s commitment to combating drug abuse, noting that illicit drugs fuel crimes like robbery, rape, and kidnappings. He stressed the need for stricter enforcement against drug supply chains and highlighted NDLEA’s ongoing efforts, including counseling services, drug tracking, and integrity testing.
“The NDLEA has arrested 854 suspects, seized over 595.3 kg of hard drugs, confiscated 613.7 liters of liquid drugs, destroyed one hectare of cannabis farmland, conducted 70 sensitization programs, counseled 604 addicts, rehabilitated nine, and secured 266 convictions,” Wada disclosed.
NOA State Director, Mrs. Tracy Ikolomi, called for collective action, including strengthening law enforcement and international cooperation, to tackle drug abuse effectively.
The event’s highlight was the unveiling of branded campaign materials, including t-shirts, face caps, posters, and banners.
