By JIDAUNA DARING
WIFE of the Plateau State Governor, Barrister. Helen Mutfwang, has expressed concern about the rising cases of drug abuse among the youth, women and men in the state.
She made this known duringan event to mark the International Day Against Drugs Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, held at Government House, Little Rayfield, Jos, recently.
She said drug abuse was a serious threat to the state’s development, security and public health, adding that it had destroyed lives, breaken families and undermined the fabric of society.
The First Lady pointed out that drug abuse caused multifaceted challenges that touched the lives of millions of people worldwide, adding that the impact was far-reaching and complex.
She stated: “We must take collective action to address this crisis in Plateau State, The Time is Now administration is committed to strengthening drug prevention and education programmes, enhancing access to treatment and rehabilitation services, and supporting law enforcement efforts to drug trafficking networks.”
Mutfwang maintained that the theme for this year, ‘The Evidence is Clear: Invest, in Prevention’, emphasized the importance of preventing people from falling into the danger of experimenting with illicit drugs and subsequently falling into the trap of dependence on psychoactive substances.
She added that, to combat the drug problem, government and relevant stakeholders must implement prevention pol programmes, especially among the youth, and take a firm stance against drug addiction through administrative and legal measures.
She urged youth to avoid the destructive path of drug abuse and embrace a life of purpose and fulfilment.
“To our parents and caregivers, educate and guide your children on the dangers of drug abuse,” she said.
Mrs. Mutfwang enjoined relevant stakeholders to intensify efforts to help create a society free from the scourge of drug abuse and illicit trafficking, adding that the devastating effects of the scourge is much in the society.
In his remarks, Commander, National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Plateau State Command, Anthony Gothar Tala, commended Governor Mutfwang and his wife for their passion for the war on substance abuse and drugs trafficking in the state.
Tala noted that parents were the most important people in the fight against drug abuse, particularly in the home by talking to their wards or children about the dangers of the scourge.
Earlier in her welcome remarks, Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Plateau State, Caroline Dafur, appreciated the First Lady for championing the war on war against substance abuse and thanked the governor for his support towards ensuring a drug-abuse-free society.
