The Nigerian Air Force Officers Wives Association (NAFOWA) has lamented the growing menace of drug abuse and its disturbing societal trend.

The national president of the association, Rakiya Abubakar, during her maiden visit to NAFOWA institutions and logistics command chapter in Lagos on Tuesday.

Ms Abubakar said drug abuse had become a disturbing and worrisome menace that had derailed the youth from attaining great potential.

Ms Abubakar appealed to NAFOWA and Airmen Wives Association (AWA) members to keep a close tab on their children and know their friends.

“We must get involved in the lives and activities of our children to eradicate this menace in the base and the society at large. More worrisome is the fact that the girl-child and even the aged have joined this ugly and unproductive trend,” said Ms Abubakar.

She added, “I am very concerned about this societal ill that I am considering establishing a NAFOWA Substance Abuse Rehabilitation Centre, which will be part of my mandate and legacy.”

The NAFOWA president said on assumption of office in July, she was confronted with a little challenge regarding shop renting and event centres, especially in Lagos and Port Harcourt.

“After objective investigations, we found out that the problem was a little above our reach, and we sought the intervention of the headquarters of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF),” said Ms Abubakar. “The matter is favourably handled at the headquarters, and I have kept track of the issue to ensure it ends in NAFOWA’s interest.”

She added, “I want to assure those who have paid for rent in NAFOWA shops that they will not lose their money or its value.”

Ms Abubakar said the association was also embarking on school reforms through improved curricular and academic syllabuses, infrastructural upgrades, and installation of modern equipment.

(NAN)