NEWS AGENCY OF NIGERIA
Defence/Security

Security: Army advocates more inter-agency collaboration

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By Rita Iliya

The Nigerian Army has stressed the need for synergy among security agencies to combat insecurity in the country and Niger.

 

Maj.-Gen. Kevin Aligbe, Commander, Training and Doctrine Command (TRADOC), made the call at the 2024 Joint West Africa Social Activities (WASA) held at the Minna military cantonment.

 

Aligbe said the event provides an opportunity for social activities and showcases the cultural heritage of Nigerians.

 

He commended the troops of TRADOC and 31 Artillery Brigade for their bravery and sacrifices, adding that they successfully conducted all their activities for the training circle for the year 2024.

 

According to him, the success was recorded in spite of the complex security operating environment in Niger.

 

Aligbe expressed optimism that the brigade and units in the state are set to consolidate the operational gains made so far.

 

He acknowledged the efforts of other security agencies, including the 013 Quick Response of the Nigerian Air Force and all other security and intelligence agencies.

 

The commander also lauded the financial and moral support of former Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Lt.-Gen. Taoreed Lagbaja and the present COAS Lt.-Gen. Femi Oluyede to training, operations, and welfare of personnel.

 

Aligbe described WASA as an annual event that promotes unity and peaceful co-existence among the Nigerian army family.

 

Earlier, Brig.-Gen. Hamidu Bobbo, Commander, 31 Artillery Brigade, commended the troops for their bravery and sacrifices.

 

Bobbo said the army would continue to work towards winning all land battles in defence of the territorial integrity of Nigeria, protecting national interest, and accomplishing tasks in a civil authority.

 

In his remarks, Gov. Umaru Bago of Niger, commended the Nigerian army’s efforts in improving the security situation in the state.

 

Bago, represented by Rtd. Gen. Bello Muhammad, Commissioner for Homeland Security, cited improvements in travel safety, farming activities, and harvests.

 

The governor said WASA had fostered unity and cohesion among the army, and promoting a sense of oneness among Nigerians.

 

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that WASA is an annual event organised by the Nigerian army to celebrate the diverse rich cultural heritage of Nigeria.

 

The event brings together officers, soldiers, and their families in a relaxed atmosphere to celebrate and mark the end of the year’s activities.

 

Highlights of the event included cultural displays, dance performances, and regimental activities by the troops and presentation of awards to officers for their outstanding performance. (NAN)

Edited by Ismail Abdulaziz

Defence/Security

Why Nigeria needs National Coast Guard—Minister

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By Kingsley Okoye

The Minister of Marine and Blue Economy, Adegboyega Oyetola, says there is need to strengthen the collaboration between the ministry and the Nigerian Navy in safeguarding Nigerian maritime space as it is done in other climes.

Oyetola made this submission on Thursday in Abuja at the Senate public hearing on the Nigerian Coast Guard Establishment Bill 2024.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that a bill to establish the Nigerian Coast Guard recently scaled second reading in the Senate.

The minister said it was important to give credit to the Nigerian Navy for its achievements in safeguarding the Nigerian maritime space and giving Nigeria a good image worldwide.

Oyetola said the collaborative effort between the ministry and its agency–the Nigerian Maritime Administration and Safety Agency (NIMASA) in the Deep Blue Project had shown great results with zero piracy in Nigeria territorial waters in the last three years.

“However, there is a need to further complement the efforts of our Navy as it is done in other climes.

“According to a 2009 publication by the Africa Centre for Strategic Studies, 15 out of the 21 independent maritime nations in sub-Saharan Africa have dedicated coast guards that identify themselves as such and none has our population and many of these countries do not have the length of our inland waterways or coastline.

“Also, a 2015 publication by the Institute for Security Studies of the National Defence College of Nigeria highlighted the impact of activities such as illegal, unregulated and unreported fishing in the inland waters, coastal and marine fishing zone in sub-Saharan Africa.

“These illegal activities are estimated to cost the region approximately between 3 billion dollars to 5 billion dollars a year in lost revenue.

“The Lagos – Calabar Coastal Highway development is a major game changer for the entire coastline of the country.

“The project is expected to unlock the regions blue economy potential– hotels, beach resorts, water parks, eco-parks, ferry services, hospitality industries, industrial parks and more are soon to spring up along the coastline.’’

The minister said that such an increase in economic activities would require a dedicated institution that would be responsible for ensuring maritime safety, search and rescue, environmental protection and the enforcement of civil maritime laws.

According to him, the spate of boat mishap within the nation’s inland waterways is also a strong justification for the need to strengthen our maritime safety and the enforcement of maritime laws and regulations in the inland waterways.

“This is necessary to boost maritime trade and trans-shipment in Nigeria.

“Also, considering Nigeria’s critical position in the maritime domain on the continent and globally, the establishment of a National Coast Guard will further increase our standing in the comity of maritime nations. This will no doubt attract foreign support and assistance.”

Oyetola said that the establishment of the Coast Guard was aimed at maritime safety–by establishing clear protocols, enforcing safety regulations, and overseeing navigation routes in our inland waterways.

He said the Coast Guard would play a critical role in safeguarding lives, property and trade within Nigeria’s coastal and inland waterways.

The minister said that the Coast Guard would respond rapidly to maritime emergencies, conducting timely and efficient search and rescue operations.

“The Coast Guard will actively work in collaboration with other relevant government agencies to prevent pollution and enforce environmental regulations within Nigeria’s waters.

“Through initiatives focused on conservation and the protection of marine ecosystems, the Coast Guard will support Nigeria’s commitment to environmental stewardship, safeguarding marine biodiversity for future generations.

“Enforcement of Civil Maritime Laws–tasked with upholding laws that govern civil maritime activities, the Coast Guard will enforce fishing laws and regulations, conventions on pollution and other civil maritime offences.

“This function will support sustainable resource management, protect Nigeria’s waters from illegal exploitation and align with international best practices for civil maritime governance.’’

He also spoke on inter-agency collaboration with military/paramilitary agencies

According to him, the ministry is cognisant of the traditional but important roles being played, especially by the Nigerian Navy and the armed forces to protect our waterways and maritime assets through their operations.

He said that the National Coast Guard would ensure effective collaboration with other military and paramilitary agencies.

“To this end, we advocate the setting up of effective and coordinated machinery for seamless collaboration with the Nigerian Navy and other armed forces, as well as key agencies in the country, to further enhance the protection of our maritime resources.

“This will include technology and resource sharing, joint maritime exercises, missions and training to enhance maritime safety and foster cooperation.’’

Oyetola urged the Senate and the National Assembly to lend their full support to the bill.

He said that the Nigerian Coast Guard would act as a vital complement to the Navy, fostering a safe and sustainable maritime environment that was aligned with international best practices.

According to him, the initiative will strengthen Nigeria’s blue economy, protect Nigeria’s natural resources and ensure prosperity for future generations.

“A flexible, adaptive implementation strategy should be evolved to midwife its establishment.

“We also encourage those with reservations to see the pressing need for this institution and rally in support of this historic endeavour,’’ he said.(NAN)

Edited by Chijioke Okoronkwo

Defence/Security

Military efforts could be enhanced through development journalism— CDS

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By Sumaila Ogbaje

The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, says that military efforts to safeguard the nation’s sovereignty could be enhanced through development journalism.

Musa stated this at the Roundtable Discussion on Nigeria’s Security and National Interest organised by the National Counter Terrorism Center (NCTC) Office of the National Security Adviser (ONSA), on Thursday in Abuja.

The roundtable was organised for members of the Defence Correspondents’ Association of Nigeria (DECAN).

He said that development journalism sought to promote public awareness and understanding of defence as well as security issues, while holding governments, the defence sector and other stakeholders accountable for their actions as well as informing decision-making by policymakers and defence officials.

According to him, the adoption of a development journalism approach allows for a more active collaboration with journalists and media organisations, enabling them to play a more effective role in promoting national cohesion and stability thereby advancing Nigeria’s national interest.

“Therefore, our national security cannot and should not solely be reliant on the strength of the Armed Forces of Nigeria rather it should be strengthened by Nigeria’s educated, healthy and socially cohesive population underpinned by development journalism.

“More so, the development journalism approach will not only require collaboration and dialogue among stakeholders, it will also focus on people centrism in the accomplishment of Nigeria’s national interest.

“This approach thus resonates with my leadership concept which is, “to Nurture a Professional Armed Forces of Nigeria that is People-Centric, Capable of Meeting its Constitutional Responsibilities in a Joint and Collaborative Environment” he said.

The CDS said that defence beat should be tailored through a development journalism lens through various options available.

The options, according to him include the continuous prioritisation of human security, adoption of investigative reporting on policy impact and the real-world implications as well as promoting dialogue, inclusivity and stakeholders’ engagement through available fora.

He also called for the need to advocate for sustainable practices through reporting on innovative practices in defence as well as using available data to tell the stories as evidence-based outcomes allows for a more informed public discourse.

”These options will engender trust and cooperation between the military, civil society and other stakeholders and enhance contextual understanding of local dynamics for enhanced social cohesion and effective collaboration.

“Today’s occasion presents me the rare opportunity to make a statement on the critical role of the media in fostering Nigeria’s national security and defence matters thus necessitating collaboration to further Nigeria’s national security interest.

“The theme for the discussion: ‘National Security and National Interest: A Development Journalism Approach for the Defence Beat’ is apt.

“This is in considering the propensity of development and sits at the intersection of national pride, global responsibility as well as the pursuit of peaceful coexistence and sustainable development,“ he added.

Musa commended the NCTC for its efforts towards enhancing development journalism.

Earlier, the National Coordinator of NCTC, Maj.-Gen. Adamu Laka, said that journalists were pivotal in shaping public perception and policy on critical issues of national security and interests.

Laka said that journalists had the responsibility to report with accuracy, fairness and sensitivity in an environment that was often fraught with misinformation and heightened emotions.

He pledged the centre’s readiness to continue to collaborate with the media and other critical stakeholders to achieve and sustain the destruction of terrorist propaganda.

He said the objective of this roundtable discussion was to foster an open and insightful exchange of ideas.

“By sharing your experiences, observations and challenges, together we aim to enhance collective understanding of the dynamics of terrorism and its evolving tactics and discover the ethical considerations of reporting on such sensitive issues,” he said.

The Minister of Information, Muhammed Idris, represented by the Director-General, Voice of Nigeria (VON), Jibrin Baba-Ndace, commended the centre for organising the roundtable.

He urged the centre and the military to sustain such media engagement to be able to counter the terrorists’ narratives.

He also urged the media to maintain responsible reporting bearing in mind national security and national interest.

In his lecture, former Defence Spokesman, retired Maj.-Gen. Chris Olukolade, said that defence reporting should align with the broader goal of safeguarding national unity and security.

Olukolade said that journalists must recognise the potential impact of their stories on public perception and national stability.

He also called for fact-checking practice in counter-terrorism reporting to avoid disseminating false or exaggerated claims that could inflame tensions or jeopardise security operations. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Yakubu Uba

Defence/Security

NAF acquires 64 new aircraft in 3 years – CAS

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By Sumaila Ogbaje

The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Hasan Abubakar, says the Nigerian Air Force in the last three years, took delivery of  64 new aircraft into its inventory.

Abubakar made this known at the NAF Training, Operations and Safety Seminar for the year 2024, in Abuja.

He said the NAF had witnessed a remarkable renaissance, evident in the renewal of its aircraft fleet and enhanced operational readiness with the support of President Bola Tinubu.

The CAS said NAF in the last one year, took delivery of 12 advanced aircraft including two KA-360i aircraft, four DA-62 aircraft, four T-129 helicopters, and two AW-109 Trekker helicopters.

The CAS said the service was expecting additional deliveries of two T-129 helicopters and one KA 360i aircraft before year end.

“In 2025, the NAF will receive 10 AW-109 Trekker helicopters, 24 M-346FA aircraft, and three CASA – 295 aircraft as well as 12 AH-1Z attack helicopters.

“This makes a total of 64 brand new aircraft in about three years. That’s not all.

“In addition to these new acquisitions, we have also procured 12 pre-owned A-Jet aircraft from the French Air Force through SOFEMA.

“All 12 aircraft are ready for shipping. It is anticipated that six will be restored to operable status, with the remaining six used as spares to support the Alpha Jet fleet,” he said.

Abubakar said it was no exaggeration to state that the NAF was experiencing a golden era under the current administration.

He pledged the commitment of the service to continue to consolidate on the operational gains made so far.

According to him, a review of their key performance indicators shows that, between June 2023 and September 2024, the NAF conducted 8,665 missions in 9,928 sorties within 15,915 flying hours.

This, he said underscored the magnitude of the relentless efforts of NAF personnel in all theatres of operations.

The air chief commended all Air Component Commanders for their exceptional leadership and outstanding performance, urging them to build on the success and strive for greater excellence.

In the aspect of training, Abubakar said the NAF had gained significant mileage in 2024 as 405 airmen and 186 officers had completed various foreign courses, seminars and trips, while 64 currently ongoing.

He added that 5,474 and 1,331 personnel had completed and were undergoing various local training courses, respectively.

“Furthermore, from January to November, the service has trained 54 Pilots abroad and 43 Pilots locally, while 16 UAV operators were trained locally.

“Indeed, it is gratifying that, today, we will also be witnessing the winging ceremony of 28 of these pilots and operators,” he said. (NAN)

Edited by Sadiya Hamza

Defence/Security

NSA commends Gov. Sani on rescue of kidnapped victims

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By Sumaila Ogbaje

The National Security Adviser (NSA), Malam Nuhu Ribadu, has commended Gov. Uba Sani of Kaduna State for his leadership in ensuring the safe rescue of kidnapped victims in the state.

Ribadu made the commendation during the handing over of another set of rescued victims to the Governor on Monday night in Abuja.

The victims were rescued by security agencies on Monday, with no ransom paid to secure their freedom.

Ribadu lauded Gov. Sani for his leadership, encouragement, and support for the entire security sector in Nigeria.

“We are happy to report that the rescued victims are healthy and have been reunited with their families.

“Not a single kobo was paid as ransom. I want to thank the governor for his leadership and support for all law enforcement and security agencies,” Ribadu said.

Ribadu assured Nigerians that the government would continue to work towards freeing all victims still in captivity.

He also thanked the armed forces, security police, and intelligence agencies for their efforts.

In his response, Gov. Sani attributed the success of the Kaduna Model to the trust and sincerity of the people working within the security agencies.

He noted that the bandits had realized that the government was genuine in its approach, leading to their willingness to cooperate.

The governor also pledged to continue partnering with relevant security agents under the office of the NSA.

He thanked Ribadu for his quiet and non-politicised approach to addressing the issue.(NAN)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

Defence/Security

I-G orders probe into alleged police brutality

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By Monday Ijeh

The Inspector-General of Police (IGP), Dr Olukayode Egbetokun, has directed a thorough investigation into allegations of police misconduct during the #EndBadGovernance protests on August 1.

The Force Public Relations Officer, ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, disclosed this in a statement on Monday in Abuja.

He said the investigation follows a report by Amnesty International accusing the Nigeria Police Force of excessive force, wrongful arrests, and culpability in protester deaths.

Adejobi stated that the inquiry seeks to identify any breaches of the Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and rules of engagement.

He said Commissioners of Police in the affected states have been instructed to submit comprehensive reports within a week.

While refuting the allegations, Adejobi described Amnesty International’s claims as baseless, misleading, and inconsistent with reports from state police commands.

He stated that the police avoided live ammunition, upheld standards, and acted professionally despite facing attacks.

He reiterated that the police operated within established rules, providing security for peaceful protesters throughout the demonstrations.

The IGP assured the public that the findings of the investigation would guide subsequent actions.

He reaffirmed the police force’s commitment to upholding citizens’ rights, enforcing the rule of law, and improving operational practices. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Abiemwense Moru

Business , Defence/Security

Defence chief, others bag security, emergency management award

141 total views today

By Sumaila Ogbaje

The Chief of Defence Staff (CDS), Gen. Christopher Musa, received the Award of Excellence at the 2024 Security and Emergency Management Award (SEAMA), on Thursday in Abuja.

The event was organised by Emergency Digest, a publication of Image Merchants Promotion Limited (IMPR), in collaboration with the Centre for Crisis Communication (CCC).

The award featured different categories which include, crime prevention, public information management, cybercrimes prevention, emergency management, community service, diligent investigation, civil-military relations among others.

It also includes outstanding crisis communicator;outstanding law enforcement officer; outstanding security officer; outstanding military officer and outstanding; defence journalist and awards of excellence.

In his remarks, Musa emphasised the need for all segments of the society to engage on how best to achieve sustainable national security and emergency management through civil military collaboration.

He said the SAEMA was also an annual event that recognised outstanding contributions to security, emergency management and humanitarian service.

The CDS said the military was making deliberate efforts towards deepening civil military collaboration to enhance national security.

According to him, civil military synergy has impacted significantly on the armed forces operations in the North East and new models are being developed to meet peculiarities in the other geo-political zones across the country.

“Thus, the theme, “Civil – Military Relation for National Security and Stability” is apt and relevant at this critical period of our national existence.

“The threats we face as a country are multi-faceted, ranging from terrorism and insurgency to socio-economic issues and community unrest.

“Arising from these complex dynamics, it has become increasingly evident that no single institution can solve these issues in isolation of others.

“Thus, a whole of society effort that brings together every segment of our nation is needed to build lasting peace, security and progress.

“This can only be achieved by integrating our collective expertise, resources and influence of various stakeholders with a view to creating a resilient framework for both security and emergency management strategies through civil-military relations,” he said.

Musa gave assurance that the military would remain committed to ensuring peace in Nigeria and protecting democracy.

The Minister of Information, Muhammed Idris, represented by the Director-General of Voice of Nigeria (VON), Jibrin Baba-Ndace commended the management of Security Digest for the awards and support for the military and other security agencies.

Idris said the security narrative has continued to change, saying that actions of a single black sheep should not be used to demonise an institution that had continued to make sacrifices for the nation.

“This is the time for us as a country to continue to support our armed forces.

“This war is a people’s war. It is what they first call the war among the people where the enemy is the neighbor who does not wear uniform or some who have double identity.

“So it is a difficult war. It is a war that is in the media space and therefore it is important that the nation will come together and that is why this celebration is very important,” he said.

The Publisher of PRNigeria and other titles, Mallam Yushau Shuaib, said the annual event recognises outstanding gallantry contribution to safety, security and emergency management in Nigeria.

He said the 2024 edition recognised the CDS for his expertise in the vital field of inter-agency collaboration and civil military relations making him the ideal speaker for the occasion.

According to him, the award unit selection process remains rigorous and transparent with their jury that comprises security experts, industry professionals an~d independent observers ensuring that deserving individuals and organisations are recognised for their exceptional achievement. (NAN)

Edited by Sadiya Hamza

Defence/Security

ICPC unveils service charter to track operations

146 total views today

By Isaac Aregbesola

The Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has unveiled a service charter to track, monitor and hold the commission accountable in its operations.

Dr Musa Aliyu, SAN,  the Chairman of ICPC, who said this at the inauguration of the charter in Abuja, said that would ensure excellent service delivery to citizens.

Represented by the commission’s Secretary, Mr Clifford Oparaodu, the chairman said that the charter would place the commission in a vintage position to deliver efficient service.

”The Service Charter outlines 27 services rendered by the commission, ranging from the administrative functions such as general administration, procurement, training, and operational functions.

”The services also include investigation, prosecution, systems study and review, public enlightenment and education.

“The charter also lists seven performance targets and timelines for some of the administrative functions such as acknowledgement of petitions and response to communications,” he said.

Aliyu said that the charter, however, acknowledged that some of the activities could not be tied to timelines.

He listed the services which timelines could not be provided with specific accuracy to include investigation of petitions, prosecution of cases, recovery of looted funds and benefits for petitioners and victims of corrupt activities.

He pledged the commission’s commitment to undertake, pursue, and deliver such services with utmost commitment.

He explained that ”the charter also contains obligations of the different stakeholders including the commission’s “customers”, visitors, contractors as well as staff, management and board of the commission.

”There is the Grievance Redress Mechanism, which outlines the channels for complaining when services are not rendered as they should be.

”The mechanisms include our toll-free number (0800-CALL-ICPC), the phone numbers of the Complaints Desk Officer and the Nodal Officer, email addresses and state offices addresses.”

He urged all the heads of departments and resident Anti-Corruption Commissioners to make information available on these services on request and during their monitoring exercises to assess service delivery.

The Nodal Officer, SERVICOM, ICPC, Mrs Azuka  Ogugua, said that the charter would help the commission achieve its goals.

”It is going to improve our operational services, we now have a template in which we can hold ourselves accountable. If we are not meeting up with the standards we set, we will query ourselves.

”The public should expect a more structured, a more focused ICPC in the way we do things because we now know that the public is aware that we have a service charter.

”When they write to ICPC they are going to get response, not just acknowledgement, within the time stated, which is 14 days, this is the standards and it can be reviewed.

”It is also to assure the public that the ICPC is listening and will serve them better,” she said.

The National Orientation Agency`s (NOA) Nodal Officer, Mr Obinna Nwosu, in his remarks, lauded the commission for developing the charter.

He said that the charter showed that the commission prioritised quality service and stakeholders’ satisfaction as a responsive and responsible public service.

“It is instructive to note that, as service providers, our stakeholders expect much from us; and when we match their expectations with quality service, we gain their trust.

’At NOA, we believe that quality service delivery is a result of positive values, attitudes and behaviours. In fact, it is the bedrock of public trust,”  he said. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

Edited by Kadiri Abdulrahman

Defence/Security

Yahaya Bello presents self to EFCC, detained

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By Isaac Aregbesola

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) has detained former governor of Kogi,  Yahaya Bello, after he presented himself before the anti-graft agency.

Bello is being prosecuted by the agency over alleged fraud when he served as governor of the north-central state.

EFCC Spokesperson, Dele Oyewale, told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that Bello was at the EFCC at about 12 54 p.m on Tuesday and was detained in its Abuja office.

He said that the former governor, who was declared wanted by the commission, came with his lawyers.

”He is having a session with investigators of the commission.

”He is being detained in our custody and he is going to be arraigned in court accordingly.” (NAN) (www.nannews.ng)

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Edited by Kevin Okunzuwa and Yakubu Uba

Defence/Security

Foundation mobilises 500 FCT students to fight drug abuse

147 total views today

By Philip Yatai

Al Masaareef Foundation, working to address gaps in education, healthcare and sustainable development, has mobilised 500 secondary school students to fight drug abuse among youths in Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

The foundation’s initiator and Chief Executive Officer, Dr Hauwa Wambai, disclosed this in Abuja on Tuesday at its Rise Above Conference with the theme, “United for a Drug-Free Life”.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the conference was organised in collaboration with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).

Wambai explained that each of the 500 students, drawn from 62 wards across the six area councils of the FCT, would be expected to train five other persons.

She added that each of the five would also train at least one person; a strategy expected to reach at least 2,500 youths with key messages against drug abuse.

Describing drug abuse as a menace to society, the founder says it also robs drug abusers of their integrity and self-respect.

According to her, drug and substance abuse leaves parents traumatised and devastated, while the youths, who indulge in the practice, are usually affected educationally, economically and socially.

“This is why today’s message is ‘Rise Above: United for a Drug-Free Society’.

“This means that the drug fight is not only for the NDLEA, who have the mandate to fight drugs in Nigeria.

“It is a societal issue that concerns parents, traditional rulers, religious rulers, the students themselves, and non-governmental organisations among others.

“So, united we stand at the community level, at the national level and the individual level.

“We all have to join our hands together to fight drug abuse and totally eradicate it in our society,” she said.

The NDLEA Chairman, retired Brig.-Gen. Buba Marwa, said the prevalence of drug and substance abuse was higher among people between the ages of 25 and 39 years.

“This is the productive age group of any country. So, we are in a big mess with drug abuse in Nigeria.

“We need to start doing something as soon as possible,” said Marwa, who was represented by Mrs Chizoba Etuka, the agency’s Assistant Director, NGO and Liaison.

The NDLEA boss said efforts were ongoing to prevent, educate and treat drug abusers.

He identified prevention as the key to winning the war against drug abuse, adding that prevention should, however, begin early enough by catching the youths at younger ages.

“We are going to schools to educate students because we want to catch them young; we don’t want to wait until it becomes a big problem.

“We are being proactive,” he said.

Meanwhile, Mrs Josie Mudashiru, founder, JAM Intervention for Vulnerable Children and Climate Change Initiative, identified partnership as critical to reducing the prevalence of drug abuse among Nigerian youths.

Expressing concern over the rate of drug use among youths, Mudashiru says it is not enough to keep saying the children or the youths are the future of Nigeria.

“If we don’t do anything about it now, then we will not have who to hand over Nigeria’s future to.

“We want to try to catch them young so that they will know the effects of drug abuse and stay away from it,” she said. (NAN)

Edited by Moses Solanke

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