The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and the Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA) have fortified alliances to combat the scourge of drug abuse and its implications on road safety.

The alliance was formed during a courtesy visit by the assistant commander general of narcotics, Ibinabo Archie-Abia, to LASTMA headquarters on Tuesday in Lagos.

The general manager of LASTMA, Olalekan Bakare-Oki, reaffirmed the agency’s readiness to forge a formidable partnership with the NDLEA.

He decried the alarming rate of illicit drug consumption, particularly among the youth.

“It underscores a direct correlation to the rising incidence of road traffic crashes,” he said.

According to him, reckless driving, fuelled by excessive drug intake, has become a major threat to road safety and public well-being.

The LASTMA boss said drug cartels used sophisticated methods to facilitate the clandestine transportation of narcotics.

“Illicit substances are frequently trafficked through unconventional channels such as dispatch motorcycles, ambulances, and other seemingly innocuous vehicles.

“An intensified crackdown on drug abuse will serve as a linchpin in addressing a myriad of societal challenges affecting the youth, thereby fostering a more secure and orderly environment,” he said.

Responding, Ms Archie-Abia said the NDLEA’s visit was pivotal to its ongoing sensitisation and enlightenment campaign.

She said multi-agency collaboration in the war against drug abuse could not be over-emphasised.

“Particularly with LASTMA, whose jurisdiction is to control traffic, positions it as a crucial stakeholder in intercepting illicit drug movements.

“Narcotics are predominantly transported via road networks, thereby necessitating proactive intelligence-sharing between LASTMA operatives and the NDLEA,” she said.

She urged LASTMA officers to remain vigilant and promptly relay pertinent information whenever they encounter suspicious activities linked to drug trafficking during their enforcement duties.

“Many of our youths are currently in rehabilitation centres across the country due to drug addiction. The only way to curb this menace is through a concerted, all-hands-on-deck approach.

“This strategic engagement reaffirms the commitment of both agencies to a fortified partnership aimed at dismantling drug networks, mitigating the ramifications of substance abuse.

“This will enhance overall public safety through robust enforcement mechanisms and intelligence-driven interventions,” she said.

The NDLEA boss conferred the title “WADA ADVOCACY” on Mr Bakare-Oki, in recognition of the agency’s unwavering commitment to drug abuse prevention and public safety.

(NAN)