The Abia State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to fighting drug abuse and illegal drug trafficking through stronger collaboration with relevant stakeholders.
Speaking at the 2026 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, organised by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Abia State Command, at the Police Officers’ Mess, Umuahia, the Wife of the Governor, Mrs. Priscilla Otti, said the event was not just a global observance but also an opportunity to renew the collective commitment to protecting lives, strengthening families, and building a drug-free society.
Mrs. Otti, who was represented by the Wife of the Deputy Governor, Mrs. Adaeze Emetu, described this year’s theme, “The World Drug Problem: Persisting Issues, New Challenges, Innovative Responses,” as timely. She noted that new patterns of substance abuse are emerging across the world and called on everyone to support the NDLEA in the fight against drug abuse and related crimes.
She also appreciated the administration of Governor Dr. Alex Otti for its commitment to tackling drug abuse and creating empowerment opportunities for young people across the state.
Mrs. Otti commended the NDLEA Abia State Commander, officers, and personnel for their dedication and hard work in combating drug abuse and illegal drug trafficking. She urged young people to stay away from drugs and avoid anything that could destroy their future.
In his goodwill message, the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Emmanuel Meribole, represented by the Director of Information in the Office of the Secretary to the State Government, Mr. Uma Ibem, said the theme highlights the need for everyone to work together to address the growing problem of substance abuse. He stressed that government, families, schools, faith-based organisations, traditional institutions, civil society groups, and the media all have important roles to play in prevention, rehabilitation, and public awareness.
He also reaffirmed Governor Dr. Alex Chioma Otti’s commitment to policies and programmes that protect citizens, especially young people, from the dangers of drug abuse.
Earlier, the Commander of the NDLEA, Abia State Command, Commander Odoemelam Chilee Chigbu, welcomed participants and thanked the Abia State Government and other stakeholders for their continued support. He called for sustained collaboration and innovative approaches to tackle emerging drug-related challenges and protect the future of the younger generation.
The Commissioner for Health, Prof. Enoch Ogbonna Uche, represented by Dr. Ifenyinwa Uma Kalu, praised the NDLEA for its consistent efforts in fighting drug abuse, curbing illegal drug trafficking, and creating public awareness about the dangers of substance abuse.
Also speaking, the Commandant of the Nigerian Navy College of Accountancy and Finance, Owerrinta, Commodore B. U. Quadri, said the fight against drug abuse can only succeed through effective collaboration and intelligence sharing among security agencies. He urged all security organisations to strengthen their partnership with the NDLEA in reducing the harmful effects of drug abuse on society.
Similarly, the Abia State Coordinator of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Alhaji Yanusa Tanimu, represented by the Assistant Director of Information and Public Relations, Mr. Omaka Nnachi, described the occasion as a day for advocacy, reflection, and renewed commitment to the global campaign against drug abuse. He commended the NDLEA for its continued support in preventing illegal drugs from entering NYSC orientation camps, thereby ensuring a safe and drug-free environment for corps members.
The event attracted government officials, security agencies, traditional rulers, religious leaders, students, civil society organisations, and other stakeholders committed to building a drug-free Abia State. Activities included a free medical outreach, a drama presentation, and drug abuse awareness talks by students of St. Theresa Secondary School, among other programmes.
