Governor Monday Okpebholo of Edo State, alongside the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), has issued a powerful call to action against drug trafficking cartels and cannabis cultivators.
The unified stance was a central theme at the 2025 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, held at the Festival Hall of the State House in Benin City.
Speaking at the event, Governor Okpebholo, represented by Secretary to the State Government Musa Ikhilor, underscored the urgent need for a coordinated offensive to dismantle drug syndicates that pose a significant threat to communities.
“We must stand firm against the drug trade that endangers the lives of our youth and disrupts our communities,” he stated.
“Our position on crime control in Edo State is clear: we are collaborating with the NDLEA to reduce drug production, trafficking, and abuse to the barest minimum.”
Echoing the governor’s resolve, Edo State NDLEA Commander Mitchell Ofoyeju declared the agency’s unwavering commitment to tackling the drug menace.
“We cannot allow drug barons to continue their destructive influence in the state,” he said.
“The life of every Edo citizen is precious and must be protected from derailment through drug misuse. We are prepared to collaborate with all stakeholders to eradicate this scourge.”
Commander Ofoyeju also commended Governor Okpebholo’s leadership and support through his SHINE agenda, highlighting its focus on security, healthcare, infrastructure, natural resources, and education as a framework for combating drug-related issues.
He drew a direct link between drug abuse and rising crime rates, healthcare burdens, and environmental degradation.
Stakeholders Pledge Collaboration
The event drew strong support from a range of key leaders and security agencies.
Goodwill messages were delivered by the Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Rt. Honourable Adebaku Sheriff Blessing, Commissioner of Police Monday Agbonika, State Comptroller Nigeria Immigration Service Martins Monyei, and Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) Gbenga Agun.
Each pledged their agency’s full cooperation with the NDLEA to ensure public safety and combat trafficking.
A panel discussion on drug abuse control, featuring experts such as Mrs. Edesili Okpebholo Anani, Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady, and NDLEA Commander Mitchell Ofoyeju, highlighted prevention strategies and the crucial role of community involvement.
The discussion aimed to raise awareness and inspire grassroots initiatives to address the problem.
Honours and Recognition
A key highlight of the day was the recognition of individuals who have championed the anti-drug campaign.
Commander Ofoyeju presented awards to Governor Okpebholo for his outstanding leadership and unwavering support, and to the Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Drugs and Illicit Trafficking Control, Hon. Andrew Oghenovo, for his exceptional partnership.
Mr. Francis Omoruyi, CEO of Uyi Technical, was also honoured for his commitment to the anti-narcotic campaign.
Honourable Andrew Oghenovo noted that the governor’s decision to establish his office and support the NDLEA was a direct response to the concerning level of drug prevalence in the state.
He revealed that Governor Okpebholo is also partnering with the NDLEA to build a rehabilitation center, making treatment more accessible for individuals struggling with substance abuse.
Youth Engagement and Vision for the Future
In a bid to engage younger generations, a quiz competition was held among nine secondary schools to test their knowledge of the dangers of drug abuse.
Mesh International School, represented by Godfrey Shalom and Osaweweren Precious, emerged as the winner, followed by Pioneer Educational Centre School II and Pioneer Educational Centre School I.
Barrister Eghogho Okpebholo, founder of the New Bridges Foundation, concluded the event by calling on all attendees to renew their commitment to combating drug abuse with a shared vision of building a healthier, drug-free Edo State.
