The Delta State Government has intensified its fight against drug abuse with the launch of a statewide awareness campaign targeting students in secondary schools and higher institutions. As part of the initiative, the government is considering making drug testing a prerequisite for admission into schools.
The campaign, themed “No Drugs, Healthy Living for a Greater Future,” is spearheaded by the State Orientation and Communications Bureau in collaboration with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and other key stakeholders.
Speaking at the launch event in Asaba, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori, represented by the Commissioner for Health, Dr. Joseph Onojaeme, highlighted the growing concern over substance abuse among young people. Citing a study from the African Journal of Drug and Alcohol Studies, he noted that illicit drug use has been linked to behaviors such as truancy and theft among students in the state.
“Starting from secondary schools across the state, the Drug-Free Delta campaign will also extend to institutions of higher learning,” Onojaeme stated. “As the NDLEA Commander suggested, we will consider the proposal to use drug testing kits as a prerequisite for students’ admissions into higher institutions. Let me also add that we are going to include the primary schools.”
The government is also accelerating the completion of a rehabilitation center at Kwale Central Hospital, which will serve as a hub for counseling, rehabilitation, and skill acquisition for individuals affected by drug abuse.
Dr. Oghenesivbe Latimore, Director-General of the State Orientation and Communications Bureau, stressed the urgency of the campaign, saying, “The rising wave of drug abuse among young people is alarming. This campaign is a proactive approach to educating, sensitizing, and empowering youths with the knowledge and skills to make informed decisions about their health and well-being.”
The initiative will roll out in phases, starting with secondary schools before expanding to higher institutions.
State NDLEA Commander Abubakar Wada reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to curbing drug abuse by reducing both supply and demand. He also emphasized the importance of drug testing in schools as a tool for early intervention, allowing affected students to receive necessary counseling and rehabilitation.
The campaign has received strong support from key stakeholders, including the Delta State House of Assembly. In a goodwill message, Majority Leader Emeka Nwaobi encouraged students to stay away from drugs to protect their future.
With this bold initiative, Delta State is taking a decisive step toward safeguarding its youth and fostering a healthier, drug-free society.
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