The Edo State Ministry of Public Safety and Security recently hosted a two-day sensitization program focused on “Workplace Drug Abuse Control,” reaffirming the state’s commitment to tackling the pervasive issue of drug abuse.
The initiative, held at the Ministry’s Palm House, saw the Edo State Permanent Secretary, Queeneth Orobedo, receive the Edo State Commander of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Commander Mitchell Ofoyeju, for the collaborative training.
The program’s primary objective was to enhance workplace awareness and equip key stakeholders with the necessary knowledge to effectively combat drug abuse across the state.
A diverse group of participants, including personnel from the Edo State Fire Department, the Edo State Security Governance Corps, and various ministry staff, actively engaged in the sessions.
The Director of Inter-Agency and Operations, Thompson Eromosele, expressed his enthusiasm for the program, highlighting the extensive opportunities it presents for advancing drug abuse prevention efforts in Edo State.
“I am delighted to have the NDLEA team in our midst to talk on the significant subject of drug abuse in the workplace. I want you to listen attentively and get the best from the training”.
In his keynote address, Commander of the NDLEA, Mitchell Ofoyeju, emphasized the critical link between drug use and criminal activities, advocating for a united front in addressing the drug crisis.
He urged all security and public safety agencies to adopt a proactive stance.
“This sensitisation programme is timely and designed to find practical solutions to the drug problem in our communities,” Ofoyeju stated.
“Drugs and crime are interlinked. The issue of drug abuse is a societal problem that requires a multifaceted response. We must work together to create a resilient community that prioritizes education, prevention, and support systems. Our target is to make ambassadors from these teams who will work as War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) partners in taking the message of a drug abuse-free society to other individuals and groups.”
Responding to the NDLEA Commander, Mrs. Queeneth Orobedo expressed her gratitude for the workshop.
“We are pleased to have this workshop addressing the problem of drug abuse in the workplace. I am looking forward to an impactful session and hope that the training will be a continuous exercise. No stone must be left unturned in finding a lasting solution to the drug problem”.
Over the two days, participants engaged in interactive workshops, presentations, and discussions covering crucial topics such as the effects of drug abuse on individuals and communities, prevention strategies, and support mechanisms for affected individuals and families.
NDLEA experts detailed common substances abused in the state and shared inspiring success stories from rehabilitation programs, underscoring the potential for recovery.
A significant outcome of the program was the enhanced ability of participants to integrate drug awareness campaigns into their daily operations, identify signs of drug abuse, and facilitate timely interventions.
There was a strong consensus among attendees that while enforcement remains vital, a balanced approach incorporating education and community engagement is equally crucial.
The program concluded with participants expressing a renewed commitment to combatting drug abuse in Edo State.
Plans were established to create a collaborative framework among various security agencies and ministries, ensuring ongoing training and the implementation of community outreach programs.
Looking ahead, the Edo State NDLEA plans to build on this initiative by launching a series of community forums to broaden the discourse on drug abuse and its implications.
The agency intends to engage schools and youth organizations in educational programs, empowering young individuals with knowledge and resources to resist drug temptations.
Participants departed with a clear sense of purpose, determined to safeguard Edo State’s future through a collective fight against drug abuse.
