The Need for Church–Government Collaboration on Drug Rehabilitation

I arrived in Enugu this morning for a series of events, beginning with The Redeemer’s Drug Rehabilitation Initiative (TREDRI) at NikeLake Hotel. A model prototype of a standard rehabilitation centre for the South East was presented. I commended TREDRI for seeking to provide structured care and hope for young people struggling with addiction, showing how faith-based organisations can restore lives and strengthen families.

I highlighted the alarming prevalence of drug abuse in the South East and across Nigeria. Addiction destroys families, erodes social cohesion, and limits opportunities for our youth. Tackling this crisis requires addressing both the medical needs of addicts and the socio-economic factors, such as poverty and unemployment, that drive substance abuse.

I stressed that the church must move beyond the pulpit to engage directly with communities. However, this cannot succeed alone; a strong church–government partnership is essential, alongside serious investment in education, healthcare, and social welfare programmes.

Finally, I encouraged initiatives like TREDRI to continue their work. I shared my experience from Indonesia, where everyone works and street beggars are absent. Nigeria can achieve similar results by lifting people out of poverty, creating opportunities for youth, and building systems that empower productive citizens.