By Ogenyi Ogenyi, Uyo
Wife of Akwa Ibom Governor, Mrs Patience Umo-Eno, has said that stigmatization against drug victims in the society is an archaic way of curbing the crime but has rather advocated for special care and support, in order to rehabilitate and reintegrate them into the society.
Eno who is also the chairperson of Akwa Ibom State Drug Control Committee made the advocacy yesterday, at the commemoration of the United Nations International Day Against Drug Abuse and illicit trafficking in Uyo.
She noted that drug abuse could be reduced and prevented if youths are equipped with accurate information.
“We must focus on educating our youth, empowering them with accurate information and equipping them with life skills to resist the temptation of using drugs.” The First Lady said.
She emphasized that stigmatization and discrimination hinders victims of drug abuse from seeking help and spoke of the need for a comprehensive prevention and rehabilitation programme.
“It is an opportunity for us to unite, raise awareness and work towards effective solutions to address the stigma and discrimination associated with substance abuse. Prevention programs should be comprehensive incorporating School-based initiatives, community outreach and targeted Campaigns that address the root causes of drug abuse.” She noted.
She also highlighted the need for collaboration among stakeholders and an evidence- based treatment and rehabilitation strategy.
“Furthermore, Strengthening prevention effort requires collaboration among government, CSOs, healthcare providers and other stakeholders. We must invest in accessible and evidence-based treatment and rehabilitation services that prioritize the well being of those affected by substance abuse.” Eno said.
The First Lady applauded her predecessor Dr Martha Emmanuel for the strides recorded while chairing the Committee and commended the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency NDLEA
for their effort at riding the society of drug induced crimes while urging all and sundry to partner
with the committee to curb the menace of stigma and discrimination.
In a remark, State Deputy Governor, Senator Akon Eyakenyi,stressed the need for the campaign against the use of illicit substances to be taken to secondary schools, tertiary institutions, churches and markets to further create awareness at the level.
Eyakenyi assured that in line with the ARISE Agenda, the State government would “support efforts aimed at safeguarding the mental and physical health of Akwa Ibom people.”
State Commander of NDLEA, Mrs Obot Bassey, while reeling out the statistics of drug abuse and illicit trafficking, said that between May, 2021 to 2023, the agency arrested 600 drugs offenders, convicted about 180, rehabilitated 29 and reintegrated them into the society.
Heads of security agencies in the state took turns to speak on the need for collaboration and synergy to fight drug abuse, while lauding the effort of the NDLEA in curbing the effects of drug abuse in the society.
Highpoint of the event was the decoration of the governor’s wife, Pastor Patience Umo Eno as the Ambassador of NDLEA by the State Commander.
