The Nigeria Governors Spouses Forum (NGSF) has made a resolute call for the declaration of a state of emergency on substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking across Nigeria.
This call was among the key resolutions adopted in a communique issued by the Forum, signed by Chairperson Ambassador Olufolake Abdulrasaq, the First Lady of Kwara state, at the conclusion of a two-day Drug Prevention Treatment and Care (DPTC) training organized by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for wives of state governors in Abuja.
Acknowledging the urgent need to address substance abuse comprehensively, the Forum emphasized the importance of revitalizing State Drug Control Committees (SDCC) and enhancing rehabilitation programs for individuals struggling with addiction.
The call for a state of emergency underscores the gravity of the situation and the necessity of mobilizing resources for a concerted effort to combat this pandemic.
The communique also outlined various initiatives and strategies proposed by the Forum to address the scourge of drug abuse, including fostering good parenting, supporting NDLEA’s Drug Integrity Testing Policy, and establishing standard drug rehabilitation centers across the country.
Additionally, the Forum pledged to champion the adoption of DPTC programs as a key project and collaborate with relevant stakeholders to promote awareness and access to treatment.
The Forum commended the efforts of the NDLEA under the leadership of Brig Gen Mohamed Buba Marwa (Retd) and expressed readiness to implement the knowledge gained during the training in their respective states.
In his closing remarks, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Retd), Chairman/Chief Executive of NDLEA, applauded the commitment of the First Ladies and urged them to translate the lessons learned into tangible actions at the state level.
