Hope Uzodinma Launches Initiative to Eradicate Drug Abuse, Empower Youth for a Prosperous Future
Governor Hope Uzodinma, has launched a proactive campaign urging youths to reject illicit drugs and embrace personal development. In collaboration with the NDLEA and Ikukuoma Sports Development Foundation, Chief Ezechukwu Obonna emphasized the hindrance of drug abuse to productivity. The initiative aims to create a drug-free environment, promoting digital skills and agriculture for youth empowerment, signaling a commitment to a brighter future for Imo State.
Mary Nwaeze 
In a bid to foster a more productive and drug-free future, the Imo State Government, under the leadership of Governor Hope Uzodinma, has issued a resounding call to the youth of the state to abstain from illicit drugs and instead focus on activities that enhance personal development.
The counsel was delivered by Chief Ezechukwu Obonna, the Special Adviser to Governor Uzodinma on Narcotics and Illicit Drugs Monitoring, during an enlightening program organized in collaboration with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and the Ikukuoma Sports Development Foundation. The event, held at Ezinihitte Mbaise council areas of Imo, aimed at raising awareness about the detrimental effects of drug abuse and promoting alternative avenues for the youth to channel their energy.
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Chief Obonna emphasized that the use of illicit drugs poses a significant obstacle to productivity and self-development among the youth. Expressing gratitude to the Ikukuoma Sports Development Foundation and the NDLEA for their partnership, he assured the public that the Uzodinma-led administration would introduce more youth-friendly initiatives.
He stated, "The motive of Government in establishing the bureau of Narcotics and Illicit Drugs Monitoring is to make Imo a drug-free state, which will go a long way in making Imo a great state as youths are the future of tomorrow and catalysts for development."
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Encouraging the acquisition of digital skills and engagement in agriculture for survival, Chief Obonna highlighted the importance of these activities in ensuring a prosperous and drug-free society.
Speaking at the program, Mr. Lamuwa Shehu, the Deputy State Commander of Operations and Training for NDLEA in Imo, addressed the global nature of the drug abuse problem. He revealed, "About 280 million people use drugs worldwide, while 15 million persons abuse drugs in Nigeria and 6 million persons are victims who are in dire need of help."
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Chiamaka Ugbede, the Principal Staff Officer of Treatment and Rehabilitation at NDLEA in Imo, echoed the sentiment, urging youths to abstain from drug abuse and redirect their focus towards making the best use of their time, resources, and talents.
Chief Summers Nwokie, the Founder of Ikukuoma Sports Development Foundation, expressed gratitude to the government and the NDLEA for their collaboration. He pledged support for the rehabilitation of any youth willing to quit drug use, promising meaningful assistance to rebuild the lives of those interested in creating a better future.
As Imo State intensifies its efforts to create a drug-free environment, this collaborative initiative aims to empower the youth and pave the way for a more prosperous and promising tomorrow.
