By Eucharia Nzeabi, Asaba
In a bid to create awareness about the dangers of drugs among youths, including those in the secondary schools and institutions of higher learning in the state, the Delta state orientation and communication bureau, led by Dr Fred Latimore Oghenesivbe has officially flag- off ceremony on drugs free Delta campaign in secondary school across the state.
The campaign which was flag- off on Monday at unity hall government Asaba, was graced by students from different schools within and outside the state with the aims of creating awareness about the dangers of drug abuse and illicit drugs among the youths.
According to the Director General, ” with the alarming reality of drugs abuse in Nigeria and in Delta state, the rising ware of substance abuse among our young people is a pressing concern that demands collective attention.
latimore said that as a responsible government, Delta state is committed to address this issue head-on noting that the drug free Delta campaign is a proactive response to the challenges thereby educating, sensitive and empowering young people with the knowledge and skills necessary to make informed decisions about their health and well beings.
In his keynote address, Latimore stated that the first phase of the campaign will focus on secondary schools across the state, with subsequent phases targeting institutions of higher learning, while explaining that the ministry has partnered with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and National Orientation Agency (NOA).
In an interview with the state commander of NDLEA, Mr Wada Abubakar Esq, and the state Director of NOA, Mrs Tracy Ikolomi noted that their partnership is to ensure the success of the initiative spear headed by the governor of Delta state.
Mr Wada Abubakar Esq said that they have Carried out war against drug abuse (WADA) advocacy in ninety-seven (97) locations, which includes 63 schools, 21 companies, 3 local government councils, markets, media houses and Religious organization with a total of 22,059 people reached.
He urged the students to stay away from illicit drugs abuse capable of destroying their future.
