CSOs, NDLEA hold walk against drug abuse in Plateau, task youths on prevention

Jide Oyekunle, Abuja

A Non Governmental Organization (NGO) under the ageism of School Outreach for Better Education, National Drug Law Enforcement Agency ( NDLEA ) and Office of the First Lady Plateau State have held a walk against drug abuse on Plateau.

The campaign was held at the old airport road Jos to commemorate the 2024 International Day Against Drugs and Illegal Trafficking with the theme “ The Evidence is Clear; Invest in Prevention”.

According to the Convener of SOBE,  Kenneth Anetor while speaking at the event said the walk is aimed at engaging the community, especially the youth, in understanding the dangers of drug abuse and the benefits of investing in preventive strategies.

Kenneth emphasised on the theme of this year’s International Day Against Drugs and Illegal Trafficking, “The Evidence is Clear; Invest in Prevention” called for urgent need for effective preventive measures against drug abuse.

On her own part the the First Lady of Plateau State, Mrs. Helen Mutfwang reiterated the state’s commitment to combat drug abuse in the state and ensuring that the youth channel their potential energy to productive ventures.

Meanwhile, the Commander Plateau State Command of NDLEA, Anthony Gotar took time to  enlighten on the current drug trends, legal implications, and preventive measures while SOBE provides practical strategies for identifying and preventing drug abuse.

The walk had over 2000 participants made up of government agencies, NGOs, CSOs and students, while the programme at the state government house had over 500 participants in attendance, including Commissioners and other state government officials

Some of the organization who took part and contributed to the success of the event includes : A New Thing International Foundation, Caleb Initiative for Drug Abuse Awareness, Notch Lens Studio, Good Tides Foundation, Secure the Future International Foundation,

Others are The; The Juli Education Foundation, Sarauniya Charity Foundation, Fresh From the Farm, Youth Against Addiction Initiative, PENKELLA, and Charis Healthcare and Community Support Initiative and MAY foundation.

School Outreach for Better Education (SOBE) is a collocation of non-profit making organisation committed to enhancing the quality of education and promoting student well-being across Nigeria through various outreach programs and partnerships by discouraging substance abuse, bullying, and other social vices.