The Edo State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to combating drug abuse and illicit drug trafficking through sustained awareness campaigns, prevention programmes, and community engagement initiatives aimed at building a healthier and drug-free society.
Speaking during a press conference in Benin City, Chairperson of the Edo State Drug Control Committee and Coordinator Office of the First Lady, Mrs. Edesili Okpebholo Anani, emphasized the government’s resolve to promote drug abuse prevention, support rehabilitation efforts, and strengthen measures against illicit drug trafficking across the state.
Mrs. Anani noted that the 2026 theme, “The World Drug Problem: Persisting Issues, New Challenges and Innovative Responses,” underscores the need for governments, institutions, stakeholders, and communities to collaborate in addressing the evolving challenges of substance abuse and drug-related crimes.
She identified poverty, unemployment, inadequate education, and social inequality as major factors contributing to drug abuse and trafficking, stressing the importance of addressing these root causes through prevention, treatment, rehabilitation, and social support programmes.
The Chairperson expressed concern over the emergence of new psychoactive substances and called for innovative approaches that combine law enforcement efforts with education, public awareness, and community participation.
She further urged parents, teachers, healthcare professionals, community leaders, non-governmental organizations, and members of the public to join hands in promoting healthy lifestyles and preventing substance abuse among young people.
Mrs. Anani disclosed that the state has lined up a series of activities, including public awareness campaigns, school sensitization programmes, and community outreach initiatives to educate residents on the dangers of drug abuse and empower them to make informed decisions.
Also speaking, Commander of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Edo State Command, Mitchell Ofoyeju, described substance abuse as a major public health challenge with significant social and economic consequences. He stressed the need for sustained awareness campaigns and behavioural change initiatives to reduce demand for illicit substances.
According to him, innovative and modern strategies are required to address emerging drug threats, including the growing abuse of shisha and other harmful psychoactive substances.
The Commissioner for Health, Dr. Cyril Oshiomhole, reaffirmed the Ministry’s commitment to strengthening mental health services, expanding rehabilitation programmes, and implementing evidence based interventions to reduce substance abuse and improve public health outcomes across Edo State.
The campaign seeks to raise awareness about the dangers of drug abuse and illicit trafficking while mobilizing collective action towards building safer, healthier, and drug-free communities across the state.