The Commander of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Ogun State, Tijjani Rabe, has called for the establishment of a rehabilitation centre for drug addicts, particularly youth in the state, to help them overcome addiction and achieve their dreams.

Rabe made the statement at an event organised by the Consolidated Chapel, Ogun State Chapter, to mark the 2025 World International Youth Day, themed “Youth Empowerment for a Sustainable Future.”

He noted that Ogun is the only state among Nigeria’s 36 states without a rehabilitation centre.

Expressing concern over the high number of drug abuse cases among youth involving substances such as Cannabis sativa, Colorado, Tramadol, Codeine and various psychotropic drugs, Rabe emphasised the importance of a rehabilitation centre to detoxify and assist individuals in regaining their sanity.

The Commander mentioned that the NDLEA Command had secured land donated by the Onimeko of Imeko for the construction of a rehabilitation centre in the state.

He called on politicians and well-meaning individuals to support the project to save youth from the destructive effects of drug abuse.

Rabe urged parents and guardians to monitor and educate their children about drug abuse, stressing that prevention is better than a cure.

He identified peer pressure, academic and career stress, digital exposure and mental health disorders as key reasons for drug abuse.

Rabe highlighted education, awareness, promotion of a drug-free lifestyle, and provision of counselling and treatment as vital solutions to youth addiction.

From January to June this year, the Command arrested 395 suspects, including 331 males and 64 females.

He called on the public to join the fight against drug abuse and trafficking in Ogun State and Nigeria as a whole.

While NDLEA operates rehabilitation centres nationwide, Rabe reiterated that Ogun remains the only state without one. He shared plans to build a rehabilitation centre in the state, emphasising the need for affordable options given the high costs of private centres.

Rabe also urged senators to support the establishment of rehabilitation centres in their constituencies.

In conclusion, he stressed the urgency of addressing youth addiction through rehabilitation centres and community support.