The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) on Tuesday enlightened troops of the Nigerian Army, 17 Brigade, Katsina State on unlawful use and abuse of drugs.

The event was organised by the 17 Brigade at their joint officers’ mess, Natsinta barrack, along Jibia road.

The theme of the event is: “People First: Stop stigma and discrimination, strengthen prevention.”

Mohammed Bashir, the NDLEA Commander in the state, said the lecture was part of activities to commemorate the United Nations (UN) International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.

The International day, or World Drug Day, is marked on June 26, every year to strengthen action and cooperation in achieving a world free of drug abuse.

According to him, the lecture is to enlighten them on unlawful use and abuse of drugs and trafficking as prevention is better than cure. 

He explained that the exercise was also to strengthen the existing relationship between NDLEA and the brigade, especially in the area of discharging their duties. 

The NDLEA commander said that the exercise came at the right time because the brigade had been supporting the command in ensuring drug demand and supply reduction across the state. 

According to Mr Bashir, the command has been partnering with the brigade in sensitising their personnel, families and the communities around.

He, therefore, called on the participants, including members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) serving with the brigade, to make proper use of the lecture.

Mr Bashir, also a Commander of Narcotics,  further advised them to sensitise their host communities and families to the implications of getting involved in drug substance use.

The brigade’s Commander, Brig-Gen. Ibikunle Ademola-Ajose, earlier said because of the menace of drug addiction and abuse, their formations were being tasked to always partner with NDLEA for sensitisation.

“Considering that the army is part of the society, what affects the society also affects us, that is why we decided to partner with NDLEA during their drug week to come and educate us on this hazard.

“It’s a two day event, today is for the troops of the brigade and corps members, and tomorrow Wednesday, it will involve our families in Natsinta Barracks,” Mr Ademola-Ajose disclosed.

He appealed to the troops and corps members to take everything they heard from the lecture very seriously, saying the army had zero tolerance on drug abuse.

According to him, the lecture will give the participants the opportunity to know a lot regarding things that constitute abuse of drugs.

“And also from time to time we conduct searches and awareness campaigns like this to ensure that the menace is totally eradicated,” he said.

Mr Ademola-Ajose was decorated by the NDLEA Commander Bashir, as the ambassador of war against drug abuse and trafficking. 

(NAN)