Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji has called for a greater level of advocacy, collaboration, and awareness campaigns to combat the growing menace of illicit drugs, particularly among youths in the country.
Unveiling a book titled Kick the Habit, authored by Dr. Eno-Udoma Eniang in Lagos, the governor said that there is a need to promote a drug-free society by partnering with stakeholders to sensitise communities against substance abuse.
He described drug abuse as a silent epidemic, tracing its root causes to individuals, families and the wider society.
He said that the devastating effects of drugs had led many addicts to psychological and emotional trauma leading to the truncation of their destinies.
The governor highlighted his administration’s efforts to combat the menace, particularly through anti-drug campaigns, community outreach, rehabilitation, and enforcement against illicit substances.
He noted that security reports showed that many users had moved from marijuana to harder drugs, emphasising the need for government and stakeholders to act urgently to protect young Nigerians and support their rehabilitation- physically, medically, and spiritually.
’Behind every abuse, there is a personality, that personality has a message, if care is not taken, that personality, an individual makes a family, families make a community, community makes a state and state make up a nation’, the governor lamented.
He stressed that law enforcement agencies cannot solve the problem alone, calling for collaborative involvement of religious leaders, traditional rulers, and parents.
He posited further that the foundation of every great nation matters; if the destinies of the youths are not managed, a nation can be destroyed by their dysfunctions.
The governor commended the publication of the book, saying it would contribute to the betterment of society, adding that tackling illicit drugs is about prevention and must be addressed holistically.
The author, Eniang said that many Nigerian youths are exposed to negative influences and addiction, noting that the book provides practical insights and spiritual guidance for those affected.
Also in attendance were Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, represented by his Commissioner for Information, Hon. Aniekan Umanah; Director-General of National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, represented by the Director of Narcotics and Controlled Substances, Dr. Rametu Momodu; and a representative of National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, among others.
