NDLEA Warns UNIBEN Students Against Drug Abuse

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, Edo State Command, has warned students of the University of Benin about the devastating consequences of drug and substance abuse. Commander Mitchell Ofoyeju delivered a lecture on the topic, charging stakeholders to take active roles in the fight against the menace. The lecture was organised by the Minematters Health and Wellness Foundation, UNIBEN Chapter, under its “Mind First” initiative.

Commander Ofoyeju stressed that tackling drug abuse requires a collective effort from all segments of society, including parents, educators, religious leaders, the media, and students themselves. He called on stakeholders to prioritise prevention, early detection, and rehabilitation rather than relying solely on enforcement. This approach aims to address the root causes of drug abuse and provide support to those affected.

The NDLEA commander warned participants about the physical, psychological, and social consequences of substance abuse, urging young people to shun illicit drugs and embrace healthy lifestyles. He emphasised the importance of making informed choices and seeking help when needed. The lecture aimed to raise awareness about the dangers of drug abuse and encourage students to make positive choices.

The Board Chairman of the Minematters Health and Wellness Foundation, Emmanuel Edionwe, commended Commander Ofoyeju for his commitment to the anti-drug abuse campaign. He described the lecture as timely and impactful, reaffirming the foundation’s dedication to promoting mental health and wellness among students. The foundation's "Mind First" programme is a flagship initiative aimed at raising awareness about mental health and substance abuse.

The event featured the presentation of an award of appreciation to Commander Ofoyeju as a guest speaker. Other dignitaries present at the occasion included Igho Ajise, a board member of the foundation. The programme demonstrated the importance of collaboration between stakeholders in addressing the issue of drug abuse among young people.

The "Mind First" programme is designed to promote mental health and wellness among young people. The initiative aligns with the NDLEA's efforts to tackle drug abuse through education and awareness. By engaging with students and stakeholders, the programme aims to create a supportive environment that encourages positive choices and healthy lifestyles.

The NDLEA Edo State Command's efforts to address drug abuse among students reflect a broader strategy to tackle the menace in Nigeria. By partnering with organisations like the Minematters Health and Wellness Foundation, the agency aims to reach a wider audience and promote a culture of wellness and responsible decision-making.

Key points

• The NDLEA Edo State Command emphasised the need for collective effort to tackle drug abuse among young people.
• The "Mind First" programme aims to raise awareness about mental health, substance abuse, and overall wellbeing among young people.
• The lecture and award presentation demonstrated the importance of collaboration between stakeholders in addressing the issue of drug abuse.