The Edo State Government in Nigeria has warned that drug and substance abuse is soaring across the state, destroying lives and threatening the wellbeing of citizens of all ages. The warning was issued on Saturday as officials flagged off the inaugural “Governor Monday Okpebholo/Buba Marwa Mini‑Marathon Race Against Drug Abuse,” a sports‑based outreach aimed at secondary‑school students.
Deputy Governor’s call for an inclusive response
Deputy Governor Dennis Idahosa, represented by Deputy Chief of Staff Pius Alile, stressed that the problem is no longer confined to youths. “Drug abuse has destroyed many lives, particularly in Edo State, where it has become rampant. Drug abuse is not an issue for our young people alone. Our young people should not be labelled in that direction. Drug abuse is related to all ages,” he said, adding that abusers can be found among the middle class and even prominent members of society. Idahosa praised the Edo State Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for organising the race and urged that such sensitisation programmes be sustained and expanded.
NDLEA commander outlines a multi‑front strategy
Dr Mitchell Ofoyeju, the Edo State NDLEA commander, echoed the concern and said the fight against drugs must go beyond arrests. “The fight thrives on multiple fronts, including engaging youths positively through sports, education and empowerment programmes,” he explained, noting that a healthy body is a drug‑free body. Ofoyeju described the marathon as the first of its kind organised by any NDLEA command in the country, intended to resonate with students, uncover athletic talent and instil a drug‑free lifestyle.
Marathon outcomes and recognitions
- More than 100 students from four public secondary schools took part in the race.
- Ojie Victor, an SS3 pupil at Edokpolor Grammar School, won the overall competition.
- Bright Osemwingie (SS3) and Chamberlain Miracle (SS2), also from Edokpolor Grammar School, finished first and second runner‑up respectively.
- The three winners received one‑year full academic scholarships from the governor and were appointed “War Against Drug Abuse” (WADA) ambassadors for Edo State.
“As ambassadors, you will carry our message to your schools, your communities and even on social media – a message of truth and hope that you can be a champion without drugs. You have chosen books over methamphetamine, sports over Tramadol and Colos. I am proud of you. Go back and say no to anyone who offers you drugs and encourage friends who are involved to quit.”
Andrew Efe, Senior Special Assistant to the Governor on Drug and Illicit Trafficking Control, affirmed that the state will continue to back initiatives that prevent drug abuse and promote a healthier, drug‑free generation.
<small>Source: Daily Post Nigeria — read the original story there.</small>
