By Oluwaseun Nubi
Mrs Kafilat Ogbara, Member of the House of Representatives for Kosofe 1, Lagos, has called for declaration of a state of emergency on drug abuse.
She specifically called on the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) to lead such declaration.
Ogbara made the call during the “Refill Your Gas for Free” initiative to mark her birthday on Friday in Lagos.
According to her, the rise in drug abuse is destroying lives and increasing crime across Nigeria.
“I am a drug abuse campaigner and advocate. There is urgent need for an emergency response in this sector,” she said.
She stressed that NDLEA, NAFDAC and relevant agencies must urgently act to address drug abuse and narcotics use nationwide.
“We must take drastic steps to combat this crisis,” Ogbara said during a drug abuse awareness walk in her constituency.
The lawmaker emphasised the need for proper rehabilitation and reintegration for those affected by drug addiction.
“We have a hotline to support addicts. We want to rehabilitate them and help improve their lives,” she explained.
She noted that many children are now victims of addiction, and that action is needed before more lives are destroyed.
“Our campaign must be intensified. We must work together to solve this problem and support affected families,” she added.
She said the awareness walk was part of efforts to tackle drug abuse.
“Curbing drug abuse will reduce crime significantly. This initiative is the right step forward,” she stated.
Ogbara expressed hope that the sensitisation effort would educate more people on the dangers of drug abuse.
“This is my personal project, managed by me and my team. I’ve also introduced it to the Women Affairs Committee,” she said.
She added that campaigns had been carried out across zones, targeting stakeholders and communities to curb drug abuse.
Ogbara also explained that the free gas refill was aimed at helping residents deal with the rising cost of gas.
She said celebrating her birthday with constituents made the day more meaningful and impactful.
“I’m committed to serving and improving the lives of my constituents. These initiatives meet our community’s needs and promote well-being.
“I will keep working hard to represent Kosofe effectively. I don’t believe in lavish birthday parties. This kind of outreach gives me true joy,” she said.
She also revealed that more projects for the constituency would be unveiled later this year.
The lawmaker said she was passionate about giving back to her community in any way she could.
“I don’t hold any executive position, so I have no official budget for this. But with every opportunity, I find ways to support my people. It’s not budgeted, but I’ll always do my best,” she said.
She said she had lobbied for more projects to benefit the constituency in 2025.
“My constituents should rest assured—they have a smart legislator. I’m not relenting. I’ll keep lobbying and pushing for more projects in Kosofe,” she added.
Mrs Tola Abubakar, Supervisor for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Lagos, praised Ogbara’s effort to distribute gas and food items.
She said the initiative brought relief to many families and was well received by the community.
“We’re proud of her. The women are grateful. Relieving our burdens helps the whole family,” she said.
A beneficiary, Mrs Funke Adeyemi, expressed her appreciation to Ogbara for the timely support.
“The gas refill helped us save money. The food items brought relief,” she said.
Mr Sulaimon Akinola, a fashion designer, who also benefitted, urged other politicians to emulate Ogbara’s gesture.
He noted the gas refill scheme would greatly help many residents facing economic hardship. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Kamal Tayo Oropo
