As part of efforts to curb drug abuse and related crimes, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Kwara State Command, has called on traditional and community leaders in Malete to strengthen surveillance of hotels, clubs and other recreational centres.
The State Commander, Commander of Narcotics (CN) Dr. Fatima Abiola-Popoola, made the call on Tuesday during a drug abuse sensitisation programme held at the Convocation Arena of Kwara State University, Malete.
Speaking on the psychosocial effects of drug abuse, Abiola-Popoola urged Daudus and other community leaders to take greater ownership of Malete by paying closer attention to tenancy arrangements and activities taking place within their communities.
She said stronger community oversight was necessary to prevent substance abuse from taking root and to address crimes associated with drug use.
The sensitisation programme brought together members of the university community, traditional stakeholders, community leaders, youths and other participants as the NDLEA intensified its preventive campaign against substance abuse.
The Vice-Chancellor of Kwara State University formally opened the programme and stressed the importance of sustained collaboration among institutions, communities and security agencies in tackling the drug abuse crisis.
Goodwill messages and expert presentations were also delivered by Dr. Nimat, a health professional; the Youth Leader of Malete Community; and the Principal of Malete Secondary School, Mr. Usman Aremu.
The interactive session that followed allowed participants to raise questions and discuss practical ways of preventing substance abuse and protecting young people from its harmful effects.
The NDLEA said the programme further strengthened its partnership with the Malete community and reinforced the agency’s commitment to prevention, public education and stakeholder engagement as key components of the fight against drug abuse.
The agency called for sustained community involvement in building a safer and drug-free environment, particularly for young people.