The Oyo State Security Network Agency, code-named Amotekun Corps, has partnered with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) to tackle drug abuse and its associated security challenges across communities in the state.

The state Commissioner for Information, Dotun Oyelade, disclosed this in a statement on Tuesday made available to journalists in Ibadan, saying the partnership was strengthened through a one-day sensitisation programme organised by the NDLEA for Amotekun operatives.

Oyelade said the programme focused on drug abuse prevention, identification of substance-related risks, healthy coping strategies, responsible conduct and community-based approaches to promoting drug-free communities.

In his welcome address, the Amotekun Corps Commandant, Col. Olayinka Olayanju (retd.), represented by the Director of Finance and Accounts, Mrs Adigun Yetunde, commended the NDLEA for the initiative and collaboration.

Olayanju stressed the importance of continuous training and capacity building for Amotekun personnel, particularly in areas directly connected to community safety.

He said a better understanding of substance abuse would enable officers to identify emerging risks, respond appropriately and contribute more effectively to prevention efforts in their areas of operation.

The commandant urged the personnel to apply the knowledge acquired during the programme in their daily duties, particularly in responsible observation, information gathering and collaboration with relevant agencies.

The Amotekun boss added that a professional and community-oriented approach would strengthen public confidence and enhance collective efforts to build safer and drug-free communities.

Also speaking, the Staff Officer, Drug Integrity Test, NDLEA Oyo State Command, O.A. Achichi, thanked the corps for supporting the programme.

Achichi said the fight against drug abuse required a collective effort involving security agencies, families, schools, community leaders and other stakeholders.

He noted that the close relationship between Amotekun personnel and communities placed them in a strategic position to identify emerging drug-related concerns and provide relevant information to appropriate authorities.

Achichi urged the operatives to maintain professionalism when handling suspected drug-related cases, stressing that suspicion should not be treated as proof.

According to him, personnel should observe, verify and properly document relevant information before referring cases requiring specialised drug law enforcement attention to the NDLEA or other competent agencies.

During the technical session, the NDLEA Staff Officer, Prevention and Sensitisation, Peter Akinbode, said drug abuse could have negative consequences for individuals, families and young people, as well as community security.

He emphasised the need for sustained public awareness and preventive measures to address substance abuse and its wider implications for society.