The Ooni of Ife, Oba Adeyeye Ogunwusi, has called for collaboration between security agencies and traditional institutions to effectively combat drug abuse among youths.

This is contained in a statement issued on Wednesday in Ile-Ife by the director of media and public affairs at the Ooni’s palace, Moses Olafare.

According to the statement, the Ooni made the call while receiving the state commander of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Olayinka Fadile, and other senior officers of the agency at his palace in Ile-Ife.

Mr Ogunwusi pledged his continued support for the NDLEA’s initiatives and assured the agency of the cooperation of traditional rulers within his domain.

The traditional ruler emphasised that protecting society from the dangers of illicit drugs was a collective responsibility that requires moral guidance, community engagement, and firm enforcement.

He commended the commander and his team for their dedication to national service and concluded the visit with prayers for divine protection, wisdom, and success in their operations, as well as peace and stability across state and Nigeria at large.

The NDLEA commander said the visit was a formal courtesy call aimed at strengthening the existing relationship between traditional institutions and the anti-drug agency. 

He noted that this was necessary to support the agency’s ongoing campaign against substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking.

Mr Fadile added that he had been informed of the Ooni’s distinguished role as one of the agency’s decorated ambassadors. 

He described Mr Ogunwusi as a committed advocate in the fight against drug abuse and expressed his desire to sustain the relationship.

According to him, while the ambassadorial decoration is a one-time honour, the agency remains proud to identify with the Ooni’s contributions and moral support in advancing its mandate.

He explained that his visit was primarily to pay homage to the royal father and seek his continued blessings.

“This is essentially a courtesy visit. 

“The NDLEA deeply values the Ooni’s influence and leadership, particularly in mobilising communities and youths toward positive change”, he said. 

(NAN)