The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has advised Nigerians to invest in hard drug prevention measures to create a drug-free society.

Ibinabo Archie-Abia, assistant commander general of the Narcotics, Directorate of Operations and General Investigation, Lagos, made this call in an interview with journalists on Friday in Ota, Ogun.

This appeal was made in commemoration of the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, celebrated globally on June 26.

Ms Archie-Abia urged corporate organisations to collaborate with the agency in the fight against drug abuse and illicit trafficking by providing more aid, logistics and policies for prevention.

She explained that hard drugs contribute to crimes such as domestic violence, terrorism, rape, kidnapping and armed robbery.

Ms Archie-Abia stressed that many social vices in the country were influenced by drug abuse.

She advised Nigerians, particularly the youth, to avoid consuming drugs, saying it destroys lives and distorts the national economy.

“We are looking forward to a drug-free society and a Nigeria with zero tolerance to drugs.

“NDLEA has reduced the volume of drugs in circulation through its activities, making it difficult for people to get supplies,” she said.

According to her, the nation is making progress in the fight against drug abuse and illicit trafficking.

She noted that the NDLEA has effectively stopped the entry and exit of various drugs through airports, seaports, land borders, and inter-city routes.

Ms Archie-Abia also encouraged Nigerians to assist children already hooked on drugs by bringing them to the NDLEA for help and treatment while noting that the agency had the cheapest rehabilitation centres provided by the federal government.

She urged youths to focus on their studies and embrace skills acquisition to improve their lives without resorting to drugs. 

(NAN)