BY JUMAI NWACHUKWU
THE Director-General, Delta State Bureau for Communications and Orientation, Dr. Fred Oghenesivbe, has called for strengthened collaboration in the fight against drug abuse
Dr. Oghenesivbe, made the call during a courtesy visit by the Drug Awareness and Rehabilitation Committee to the Asagba Royal Palace, Asaba.
Describing the visit as timely, Dr. Oghenesivbe noted the alarming rise in substance abuse across the state, particularly among youth and emphasized the need for synergy between traditional institutions, government agencies, law enforcement, and the wider public to combat the menace effectively.
Citing disturbing statistics, the DG revealed that as of 2023, approximately 500,000 residents of Delta State between the ages of 15 and 65 were involved in drug use or abuse. He identified cannabis, tramadol, and opioids as the most commonly abused substances. He also commended the state’s ongoing anti-drug initiatives, particularly the “Drug-Free Delta” campaign launched by Governor Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori. Now in its second phase, the campaign has reached thousands across 58 secondary schools and all tertiary institutions through the establishment of War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) Clubs.
He further acknowledged the establishment of new rehabilitation centers in Kwale and Agbor as critical steps in supporting recovery for those affected by addiction.
Dr. Oghenesivbe lauded the Asagba of Asaba, His Royal Majesty, Prof. Epiphany Azinge, SAN, and the Chairperson of the Drug Awareness and Rehabilitation Committee, Obi Nwanyi Adanma Ajufoh, for their proactive approach in addressing the drug crisis. He pledged the Bureau’s full support in expanding awareness and rehabilitation efforts, reiterating Delta State Government’s unwavering commitment to creating a healthier, safer society.
Earlier, the Committee Chairperson Obi Nwanyi Adanma Ajufoh, said that the visit was aimed at forging a strong partnership with the Bureau to eradicate drug use in Asaba and surrounding communities. She praised the Bureau’s efforts in protecting young people and expressed enthusiasm for working together to curb drug abuse.
In his remark, the representative of the Commander, NDLEA, Delta State Command, Halilu Habibu, the Deputy State Commander, Operations and Training, Victor Isibor, reported that 594 suspects were arrested with different drug substances in the first and second quarters of 2025 and urged parents to take a proactive role in educating their children and preventing future addiction.
Also speaking, the Police Public Relations Officer (PPRO) of the Delta State Police Command, SP Bright Edafe, represented by Emeka Nwanze, stressed the link between drug use and criminal activity, as he called for a collective responsibility to create a drug-free and secure environment in the State.
