Edo State Government Intensifies Campaign Against Drug Abuse, Seeks Public Partnership

Edo  State Government Intensifies Campaign Against Drug Abuse, Seeks Public Partnership

Falmata Ibrahim 

The Edo State Government has renewed its pledge to tackle drug abuse and illegal drug trade through continuous sensitization, preventive programs, and grassroots involvement aimed at creating a safer, healthier state.

At a press briefing in Benin City, Mrs. Edesili Okpebholo Anani, Chairperson of the Edo State Drug Control Committee and Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady, said the administration remains committed to stopping substance abuse, helping victims recover, and cracking down on drug traffickers across Edo.

Mrs. Anani explained that the 2026 theme, “The World Drug Problem: Persistent Issues, Emerging Threats, and New Solutions”, highlights why governments, organizations, communities, and citizens must work together to deal with changing patterns of drug use and related crimes.

She pointed to poverty, joblessness, poor education, and social imbalance as key drivers of drug abuse and trafficking. Tackling these root causes, she said, requires prevention efforts, treatment, rehab support, and strong social welfare programs.

The Chairperson also raised alarm over the rise of new synthetic drugs and stressed the need for fresh, smart strategies that blend enforcement with education, public enlightenment, and community action.

She called on parents, teachers, health workers, traditional leaders, NGOs, and every Edo resident to team up in promoting healthy choices and shielding youths from substance abuse.

Mrs. Anani revealed that the state has lined up several activities ,public awareness drives, school outreach, and community programs to inform residents about the risks of drugs and help them make better decisions.

Also addressing the press, NDLEA Edo State Commander, Mitchell Ofoyeju, described drug abuse as a serious health and social problem with wide economic effects. He said constant public education and programs that change behavior are key to cutting demand for illegal substances.

He added that modern, innovative tactics are needed to fight new threats like the growing use of shisha and other harmful psychoactive substances.

The Commissioner for Health, Dr. Cyril Oshiomhole, restated the Ministry’s commitment to improving mental health care, expanding rehabilitation centers, and using proven, research-based methods to reduce drug abuse and boost public health in Edo.

Overall, the campaign is focused on educating citizens about the dangers of drug abuse and trafficking, while rallying collective action to build safer, healthier, and drug free communities statewide.