World Drug Day: NDLEA seeks faith-based support in drug abuse fight
By Ibironke Ariyo
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has called on faith-based organisations, families and corporate bodies to intensify their support for the prevention of drug abuse and illicit drug trafficking in Nigeria.
The NDLEA Chairman, retired Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa, made the call on Sunday during a thanksgiving service held at the Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries (MFM), Wuye, Abuja.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the service was held as part of activities marking the 2025 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.
The theme for the year 2025 World Drug Day is “Evidence is Clear: Invest in Prevention.”
Marwa, who was represented by the Secretary of the NDLEA, Shadrach Haruna, acknowledged the sacrifice by personnel and thanked God for the lives of the agency’s officers.
“We thank God for preserving our lives and for the relentless efforts of our officers who work daily to rid the streets of harmful substances.
“Unfortunately, we have lost some officers in the process, but we continue to push forward,” he said.
Marwa, however, emphasised the critical role of parents in drug abuse prevention, urging them to instil sound moral values in their children and support them in making the right choices.
“Prevention starts at home. Parents are the first line of defence. If values are instilled early, we can reduce drug use among young people,” he said.
The NDLEA Chairman also urged individuals already struggling with drug addiction to seek help through the NDLEA’s anonymous support line: 080 1020 3040.
He assured that the line was available 24/7 for counselling and rehabilitation, not to arrest.
He also commended the faith-based groups for their role in the agency’s drug demand reduction strategy.
“For effective drug demand reduction, we need faith-based groups, families, and organisations. MFM has shown that churches can amplify this message through their platforms and communities,” he added.
Marwa noted that similar prayers and engagements were held in mosques earlier in the week as part of the agency’s inclusive and strategic outreach.
He reiterated the agency’s commitment to reducing drug use in the country, stressing that collective action, moral responsibility, and spiritual support were essential in combating the scourge.
“Every family has either been directly or indirectly affected by drug abuse. That’s why we must all rise, invest in prevention, and work together to save our youths and communities,” he stated.
Speaking, Pastor Edwin Etomi, the Senior Regional Overseer of MFM, called on faith-based organisations, families, and all sectors of society to actively support the NDLEA in tackling substance abuse in Nigeria.
Etomi stressed the importance of collaborative efforts to curb drug-related challenges.
He urged other places of worship to emulate MFM’s example by engaging in efforts that empower youths and contribute meaningfully to national development.
“This is a way of repositioning our youth for better exports and usefulness in society.
“Drug abuse is a menace, and it will take every hand that is the parents, churches, private and public sectors to reduce its impact,” he said.
Addressing the issue of stigma, Etomi cautioned against condemning victims of drug addiction, encouraging families and institutions to offer support and inclusion.
Etomi expressed optimism about Nigeria’s future, saying the country has immense potential that could be unlocked through collective responsibility and strategic collaboration with institutions like NDLEA.
“This is not the time to stigmatise anybody. This is a time to help. NDLEA cannot do it alone.
“We believe in this country and in what God can still do through us and through structured organisations like the NDLEA,” he added.
NAN reports that the service, attended by NDLEA officers and church members, featured prayers for divine protection of operatives on the frontline and the success of the agency’s ongoing nationwide efforts. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)
Edited by Yakubu Uba
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