Adamawa First Lady calls for collective action to tackle drug abuse

The wife of Adamawa State Governor, Hajiya Lami Fintiri, has canvassed a collective approach to the challenge of illegal use of hard drugs, to protect youths who are most affected.

Mrs Fintiri who is currently leading a state-wide campaign by way of street walks against drug abuse, said during one of the events in Yola on Wednesday that urgent collective action is needed to check drug abuse among young people, provide rehabilitation for those battling addiction, and support rehabilitated ones needing employment.

During the engagement on tackling drug abuse and trafficking in Yola, the First Lady who is conducting her intervention under her Fresh Air Pro-Life Empowerment Foundation, stressed the need for a collective response to protect young men, women and children from the dangers of substance abuse and trafficking.

She said, “Tackling drug abuse requires more than an awareness campaign. It needs early intervention, family and societal support and programmes that empower young people to make informed decisions.”

She urged stronger collaboration among government agencies, traditional and religious leaders, and civil society organisations to address the underlying causes of drug abuse and trafficking.

“Protecting vulnerable groups and creating self-actualization opportunities for young people are essential to preventing substance abuse,” she stressed.

Also speaking, the Adamawa State Commissioner for Women Affairs and Social Development, Mrs Neido Kufulto, described drug abuse and trafficking as threats to the future of children and societal development.

The commissioner canvassed a comprehensive approach combining law enforcement, education, rehabilitation, family support and economic empowerment for vulnerable people.