Minister decries frightening rate of drug abuse among women

…Cleric Highlights Father’s Responsibilities
The increasing involvement of women in drug abuse, especially in Abuja has been described as frightening and worrisome, requiring concerted efforts and commitment by all, FCT Minister, Muhammed Musa Bello has said.

He said this yesterday in Abuja, at a one-day workshop on “Women and substance abuse: Implications for building a better society.’’ The event, which drew participants from the six area councils of the FCT, was organized by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in collaboration with FCTA Social Development Secretariat (SDS).

NDLEA Chairman, Muhammad Mustapha Abdallah (Rtd) noted that the workshop is a timely response to the increasing abuse of drugs amongst women, especially in Northern Nigeria and has diminished the value and respect for women while calling on stakeholders to help fashion out ways to eradicate the scourge. SDS Secretary, Oladimeji Ali Hassan noted that through misuse of certain drugs, natural and chemical substances, meant to be of help to mankind, but have caused adverse effects to the society, stressing the need for increased education and awareness.

Meanwhile, Evangelist Chukwuemeka Onyemadu of Our Saviours’ Anglican Church, Tedi, Ojo has said that one of the key responsibilities of a father is to carry every member of their family along in whatever they do, saying any man who cannot provide for his family is worse than an infidel.

Speaking on the theme: ‘My Father never fails’ from the book of Psalm 121 to mark this years’ Fathers Day, he recalled that a man must take care of his family spiritually and physically.