By Gloria Osemudiamhen
BENIN CITY — The Edo State Government has stepped up its efforts to curb drug abuse and illicit trafficking, with Governor Monday Okpebholo declaring a renewed focus on prevention as the most sustainable way to tackle the growing menace.
Speaking during a commemorative event marking the 2025 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking at the New Festival Hall, Government House, Benin City, Governor Okpebholo, represented by Secretary to the State Government Umar Musa Ikhilor, warned that rising drug abuse poses a significant threat to social stability, health, and security.
He noted, “Drug abuse has become too expensive and difficult to tackle using conventional enforcement alone. Prevention through education and community mobilisation is the key to breaking the cycle.”
The event, organised by the Office of the Special Adviser to the Governor on Drug and Illicit Trafficking Control in collaboration with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), featured interactive sessions, educational drama, and a quiz competition.
Mrs Edesili Okpebholo Anani, Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady, highlighted the importance of educating children early about the risks of drug abuse, noting a worrying trend of increased drug use among young girls.
She disclosed ongoing collaborations with the NDLEA to roll out targeted awareness campaigns for mothers.
Commander Mitchell Ofoyeju, head of the NDLEA in Edo State, disclosed that the agency arrested 209 suspected traffickers 129 males and 80 females and seized 53,520.8 kg of narcotics over the past six months.
He emphasised the need for a collective, multi-sectoral approach to address the crisis.
Senior Special Adviser on Drug Control, Mr Andrew Efe, expressed gratitude to Governor Okpebholo for prioritising drug abuse prevention and supporting rehabilitation initiatives.
The highlight of the event was the administration of the Drug Abuse Abstinence Oath, with the governor, dignitaries, and audience pledging to champion a drug-free Edo.
The ceremony concluded with the presentation of recognition awards to individuals and organisations supporting the state’s anti-drug efforts.
World Drug Day, commemorated annually on 26 June, was established by the United Nations in 1987 to highlight global challenges posed by drug abuse and encourage coordinated responses.
The 2025 theme is “Break the Cycle. #StopOrganisedCrime,” reflecting the link between illicit drug markets and organised crime.
