The narcotic commander of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency ( NDLEA), Ogun Command, Tijani Rabe, says having rehabilitation centres in the state for drug addicts will enhance the fight against hard drugs.

Mr Rabe said the state was without any rehabilitation centre while speaking with journalists on Tuesday.

He said that such centres would enhance the rehabilitation of addicts and tackle the menace it poses to society.

“Without the centres, the war against illicit drug consumption may not end easily won,” he said.

According to the NDLEA boss, most drug users are ashamed to visit psychiatric centres because of stigma, even when the agency mandates them after counselling.

“They strongly believe that a psychiatric centre is meant only for people with mental illness.

“They end up not going to see a psychiatrist even after recommendation; they feel insecure and exposed,” he said.

He said that as the country approaches 2025, the command remains resolute in the determination to ensure a drug-free nation.

“The NDLEA will continue to launch incessant assaults on syndicates, using every tool at its disposal to disrupt and dismantle their operations.

“The agency will continue to work tirelessly to ensure that all our communities are safe and free from the scourge of illicit drugs.

”It will also redouble efforts on sensitation programmes to train the populace, especially the youths, on dangers of drug trafficking and consumption,” he said.

(NAN)