Use sermons to campaign against drug abuse, NDLEA urges clerics
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) on Monday urged worship centres to focus sermon on the dangers of drug abuse and illicit drug trafficking.
The commander, Apapa Command Headquarters of NDLEA Lagos State, Mr Ameh Inalegwu, made the appeal at a news conference in commemoration of the 2022 International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Drug Trafficking.
Inalegwu said that sermons on the dangers of drug abuse and illicit drug trafficking would help to reduce the menace in the country.
“All the worship centres, including churches, mosques, traditional centres, faith based organisations and others must use this herculean to preach against the ugly monster.
“Both the old and young must know, they must join us in the fight, as NDLEA is trying its best,’’ he said.
Inalegwu said that the command would embark on some activities to enhance knowledge on the health, social and legal consequences of illicit drug use.
“We will provide accurate information on illicit drug habituation, using this year’s theme that is not only topical but provoking.
“The theme is consistent with the War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) which is the theoretical framework of the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of NDLEA, Retired Brig.-Gen Buba Marwa,” he said.
Inalegwu noted that the global records showed that drug abuse and illicit drug trafficking accounted for most health problems.
He added that drug abuse and illict drug trafficking aggravated conflicts, crime and criminalities and insecurity.
He said the area command would visit host communities of Apapa, Ijora and Amuwo-Odofin, where the maritime operations are concentrated.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking is marked on June 26 annually.
The theme for 2022 commemoration is: “Addressing Drug Challenges in Health and Humanitarian Crises.”
It is designated by the United Nations (UN) to commemorate the drug day.
All segments of the society are urged to adopt actions that sensitise their immediate communities on dangers of drug abuse and consequences of illicit drug trafficking.
(NAN)
