BY SHARON IVOVI
AS the world marks the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, the Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to eradicating drug abuse, particularly among youths and students.
Governor Oborevwori gave the assurance while speaking at a special event organized by the Delta State Drug Control Committee to mark the 2025 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking held at the Unity Hall, Government House, Asaba, yesterday.
The Governor, represented by the State Commissioner for Health, Dr. Joseph Onojaeme, emphasized the importance of sustained advocacy and grassroots awareness, highlighting the theme of the observance “The evidence is clear: invest in prevention,” as a timely reminder that underscores the need for collective action to address the scourge of drug abuse in our society.
While urging residents to join hands in the fight against drug abuse particularly among young persons, Governor Oborevwori said that the state government had taken significant steps to tackle drug abuse in the State
He highlighted the construction of a state-of-the-art rehabilitation center and skill acquisition center in Kwale as part of initiatives demonstrating the government’s commitment to providing support and resources for those affected by the scourge.
The wife of the Governor, and founder of the ‘You Matter Charity Foundation’, Deaconess Tobore Oborevwori, who was represented by the wife of the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Dr. Josephine Emu, stressed the urgency of working together to root out drug-related issues and create a safer, healthier community.
Others who spoke at the event included the member representing Oshimili South in the Delta State House of Assembly, Honourable Mrs. Bridget Anyafulu and the Acting State Commander of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Mr. Chris Owoeye, echoed the call for collective action.
Earlier, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Health, Dr. Philomena Okeowo, in her welcome remarks, highlighted the dire consequences of drug abuse, stressing that it remained a global challenge.
While welcoming critical stakeholders to the event, including students, security agencies, and advocacy groups, urged stakeholders to work together, emphasizing the crucial role families, schools, and religious institutions must play in addressing the menace. In a keynote lecture, Pharmacist Mrs. Eunice Obi underscored the importance of early intervention, mental health support, and reducing stigma faced by addicts, reinforcing the need for a comprehensive approach to tackle drug abuse.
The high-level gathering of stakeholders emphasized the urgent need for policy support and community sensitization to tackle drug-related issues in campuses and neighborhoods.
