The Anti-Kidnapping, Human Trafficking, Child Abuse and Drug Abuse Initiative (AKH-TRACADA), a Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO), has called for increased investment in drug abuse
By Ibironke Ariyo
The Anti-Kidnapping, Human Trafficking, Child Abuse and Drug Abuse Initiative (AKH-TRACADA), a Non-Governmental Organisation (NGO), has called for increased investment in drug abuse prevention efforts across the country.
The Founder and Executive Director of the NGO, Primate Belonwu Ezeanyaeche, said this in a statement on Monday in Abuja to commemorate the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the NDLEA had earlier commenced the week-long observance with a press conference on Wednesday, June 18, in collaboration with UNODC, and setting Monday, June 23 as NGOs Day.
The theme for the year 2025 World Drug Day is tagged Evidence is Clear; Invest in Prevention.
Ezeanyaeche who said that the organisation threw its weight behind NDLEA commended them for dedicating a day during the anti-drug awareness week to spotlight the work of NGOs.
He, however, believed that the move would further strengthen the synergy between government agencies and grassroots advocates.
He emphasised that only a proactive and community-driven approach could address the root causes of drug abuse and illicit trafficking, especially among young people.
He urged governments at all levels, stakeholders, and the private sector to prioritise prevention strategies as a sustainable approach to ending the drug crisis.
“Drug abuse continues to destroy the future of our youth and weaken the fabric of our society.
“The evidence is clear; investing in prevention reduces crime, saves lives, and strengthens families.
“Our communities must no longer treat drug use as a hidden issue but one that demands bold, early, and sustained intervention.
“We believe prevention is not only possible but also the most effective and cost-efficient solution. Our experience working in vulnerable communities has shown that prevention works.
“We have seen youths turn away from drugs after being educated, supported, and empowered with alternative pathways.
“The time has come to shift more resources and attention towards prevention, not just enforcement and rehabilitation,”he said.
Ezeanyaeche outlined the organisation’s contributions which included community-based sensitisation campaigns, youth mentorship programmes.
This, he added to include school outreach, and provision of psychosocial support for drug-dependent individuals among others.
“We have our ongoing work in schools, rural communities, and among at-risk youth, where we offer counselling, sensitisation, and empowerment programmes.
“We also provide referrals for rehabilitation and collaborate with law enforcement agencies to curb drug demand at the grassroots,”he added.
Ezeanyaeche, however, reaffirmed his commitment to working closely with the NDLEA and other relevant agencies to combat drug abuse and related crimes.
He called for the integration of drug education into school curricula, stronger parental involvement, and the establishment of community-based prevention programmes nationwide.
“While enforcement remains vital, it cannot work in isolation. The future lies in prevention. Nigeria must invest in protecting its most valuable resource, which is, its young people, “he said.
NAN reports that the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, observed globally on June 26, is an annual reminder of the urgent need for united action against drug abuse, especially among youth.(NAN) (www.nannews.ng)