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The wife of the Abia State governor, Priscilla Chidinma Otti, has called for the establishment of a Task Force and collaborative action to address drug abuse in the country.
She said that the task force members will comprise representatives from various sectors, including healthcare, education, law enforcement, and community organizations, and will coordinate joint efforts, identify areas of concern, and allocate resources to support initiatives.
Mrs. Otti, who spoke at the Government House, Umuahia, the Abia State capital, during the Drug Control Committee meeting, said that it must be acknowledged that drug abuse is a complex problem that requires a comprehensive approach. It is not just a matter of law enforcement or healthcare but also involves education, prevention, and community engagement.
“We should also engage with schools, community centers, and faith-based organizations to promote awareness and education about drug abuse, bringing together government agencies, civil society organizations, healthcare providers, and community leaders to share knowledge, resources, and best practices.”
She further suggested launching a public awareness campaign to educate the citizenry about the dangers of drug abuse, adding that the campaign should utilize various media, including social media, print, and electronic media, to reach a wide audience.
Expressing deep concern and worry over the devastating impact of drug abuse on individuals, families, and communities, and noting that youths are particularly vulnerable, she charged, “As responsible citizens and concerned individuals, it is our collective duty to combat this problem and start by acknowledging the root causes of drug abuse—stress, peer pressure, or a lack of awareness about the dangers of substance misuse.”
