The National Association of Electronic Media Presenters of Nigeria, Imo chapter, has conferred an award of ‘Exceptional Public Service’ on Governor Hope Uzodimma for his avowed fight against drug abuse.

The association’s chairman, Jerry Osuji, presented the award to the governor in Owerri on Saturday.

In a speech, Mr Osuji said the award was an acknowledgement of his unwavering commitment to combating narcotics and drug trafficking, and to securing a drug-free future for Imo youths and communities.

“Under your leadership, the Imo government has intensified awareness campaigns, collaborated with law enforcement agencies, and established rehabilitation centres to support victims of drug abuse. The governor’s administration has also partnered with community leaders, schools, and religious organisations to educate young people on the dangers of substance abuse,” Mr Osuji said.

Receiving the award, the governor, the governor’s special adviser on narcotics and illicit drugs monitoring, Ezechukwu Obonna, described the gesture as “a boost to the administration’s ongoing war against drug abuse and illicit trafficking”.

He also described it as a call to action for other leaders and stakeholders to join forces with the governor in addressing this menace.

“Governor Hope Uzodimma’s leadership is an inspiration to all, and his efforts will undoubtedly make a significant impact in the fight against drug abuse and illicit trafficking in Imo state.

“We are committed to creating a drug-free Imo, and we will not relent in our efforts to ensure that our youths and communities are protected from the dangers of substance abuse,” Mr Obonna said.

(NAN)