The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has called on communities across Anambra State to step up the fight against drug abuse and illicit drug trafficking, urging residents to remain vigilant and promptly report suspicious drug-related activities to security agencies.
The appeal came during the 2026 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Drug Trafficking, themed “World Drug Problem: Persisting Issues, New Challenges, Innovative Responses,” held at the Federal Secretariat, Awka. The event also featured the 12th edition of the Lady Victoria Onyido/NDLEA Quiz Competition for Secondary Schools, sponsored by the traditional ruler of Ogidi Kingdom, Igwe Pharm. A. Onyido, in memory of his late mother, Lady Victoria Onyido.
Speaking at the event, the NDLEA Commander in Anambra State, CN Charles Onubogu, disclosed that the command had arrested 570 suspects, seized about 1.8 tonnes of illicit drugs, secured 128 convictions, rehabilitated 102 drug-dependent persons, counselled 445 drug users, and carried out anti-drug sensitisation campaigns in over 120 schools, churches, communities, motor parks and corporate organisations within the last 11 months.
Onubogu described young people as the most critical stakeholders in the war against drug abuse, warning that illicit substances offer only temporary excitement but ultimately destroy lives and destinies.
“Drugs are traps disguised as shortcuts to excitement or relief. They promise everything but eventually take everything. Choose your well-being, your dreams and your future over the temporary high of substance abuse,” he advised.
He also urged parents and guardians to play more active roles in raising their children, stressing that the family remains the first line of defence against drug abuse.
“The most effective drug rehabilitation programme is a strong, loving and observant family unit. NDLEA cannot be everywhere at once. Community leaders and residents must increase vigilance and report suspicious drug-related activities in their neighbourhoods,” he said.
In separate goodwill messages, the representative of the Commander, 302 Artillery Regiment, Nigerian Army, Jamilu Saad, warned that drug abuse fuels crime, insecurity, poor health, family breakdown and declining academic performance.
He maintained that tackling drug abuse was a collective responsibility requiring sustained awareness, mentorship, rehabilitation and community participation, urging parents, teachers, religious leaders and traditional rulers to continue providing moral guidance to the younger generation.
The highlight of the event was the presentation of the championship trophy to St. Patrick College, Awka, winners of the 12th Lady Victoria Onyido/NDLEA Quiz Competition for Secondary Schools in Anambra State.
