Edo State government, in its commitment to combat the growing incessant drug abuse among young people, has commenced sensitisation programme on the scourge in the state.
It was learnt that the initiative tagged ‘Catch Them Young’ which kicked off on October 10 in Auchi, Etsako West Local Government Area of the state is aimed at educating school children and stakeholders on the dangers of substance abuse.
According to the organisers, the campaign, which also underscores the urgency of the issue, will also be hosted in Edo South and Central senatorial district in the state later this month.
At the event, the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Social Development and Gender, Mrs. Barbara Osobajo, said that drug-related issues accounted for majority of young people requiring rehabilitation.
Mrs Osobajo, who was represented by the Director of the Rehabilitations Department in the Ministry, Mr. Sylvester Okeguale, added that owing to the prevailing situation of substance abuse in the state, the campaign was birthed to combat the scourge.
“Our children are the future, but the future is now under threat due to the alarming rate of drug abuse among young people.
“We must act now to prevent this menace from destroying our youth,” Okeguale said.
On his part, Chairman of Etsako West Local Government Area, Zibiri Muhizu Marvelous, lauded the state government’s efforts in addressing the menace.
He opined that issue of drug abuse requires multifaceted approach, involving parents, educational institutions and community organisations.
Marvelous, who stressed the importance of parents in preventing substance abuse, however, called on them to be active in the lives of their children in order to mitigate the influence of peer pressure
The facilitator, Mr. Purpose Ehigie, highlighted the risks associated with prescription medications, alcohol and other seemingly harmless substances, emphasising the need for vigilance.
He noted that curbing substance abuse-driven mental health issues among youth demands proactive measures.
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