The Ondo State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to combating drug abuse and substance misuse through a strategic partnership with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA, Ondo State Command, aimed at promoting a drug-free, healthy and productive society.
The Special Assistant to the Governor on Youth and Social Inclusion, Comrade Henry Okunomo, held a strategic meeting with the NDLEA team, led by the State Commander, CN Folayemi Adeyemo Gabriel, to deliberate on areas of collaboration and develop a coordinated approach to tackling the growing challenges of drug and substance abuse across the state.
The meeting focused on strengthening institutional cooperation, youth-oriented drug prevention programmes, public enlightenment campaigns, community engagement, early intervention and the promotion of healthy lifestyles among young people and the general public.
According to the statement, the partnership underscores the determination of the administration of Governor Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa to prioritise youth development, social inclusion, public safety and the overall well-being of citizens.
As part of the proposed collaboration, the Office of the Special Assistant to the Governor on Youth and Social Inclusion will work closely with the NDLEA to promote sustained awareness campaigns in schools, communities, youth organisations and other relevant institutions across the 18 Local Government Areas of the state.
The collaboration will also explore the integration of drug abuse prevention, awareness and referral mechanisms into the proposed Ondo State Youth Call Centre, which is designed to serve as a central platform for youth complaints, enquiries, feedback and access to government opportunities and support services.
Speaking after the meeting, Okunomo emphasised that drug and substance abuse pose a serious threat to the future of young people and the overall development of society.
He stated that his office is committed to working with relevant agencies, particularly the NDLEA, to ensure that young people are adequately informed, protected, empowered and guided towards productive and meaningful engagement.
He further noted that the initiative would adopt a comprehensive approach that combines prevention, education, responsible enforcement and access to professional support and rehabilitation for individuals affected by substance dependency.
Okunomo reiterated that the partnership is not merely a campaign against drug abuse but a deliberate effort to safeguard the future of Ondo State youths, promote social inclusion and strengthen the government's commitment to building a safer and healthier society.
The Ondo State Government called on parents, guardians, educational institutions, traditional rulers, religious leaders, civil society organisations, youth associations and other stakeholders to join hands with the government and the NDLEA in the collective fight against drug and substance abuse.
It maintained that Ondo State is committed to zero tolerance for drug abuse, substance misuse and the illicit use of hard drugs.
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