Kogi Education Ministry to Partner with NDLEA to Combat Drug Abuse in Schools

The Kogi State Commissioner for Education, Mr. Wemi Jones, has announced the ministry’s readiness to partner with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) to reduce drug abuse in schools across the state. This assurance was given during an advocacy visit by the NDLEA Commander in the state, Mr. Umar Yahuza, and his management team to the commissioner’s office on Tuesday in Lokoja.

Mr. Jones expressed concern over the alarming rate of drug abuse among teenagers and emphasized the need for concerted efforts to address the menace in schools at all levels. He highlighted the state’s significant investment in education and stressed that the ministry would not allow such investments to be undermined by drug abuse.

The commissioner also noted the prevalence of drug abuse, particularly among females, and warned that the country was facing a serious issue that required collective action. He assured that the Kogi government is committed to addressing any challenges that hinder educational growth in the state.

Mr. Yahuza thanked Governor Ahmed Ododo for prioritizing the needs of the people and commended the governor’s promise to establish a Multi-Dimensional Drugs Rehabilitation and Skills Acquisition Centre in the state. He emphasized the importance of sensitizing and enlightening the public about the dangers of drug abuse through collaboration with schools, religious institutions, and community leaders.

The NDLEA Commander urged the ministry to develop a robust program to educate and rehabilitate those affected by drug abuse. He also mentioned the introduction of Drugs Integrity Tests for families and institutions as a measure to curb the menace.

The visit concluded with the decoration of Mr. Jones as a War Against Drug Abuse Ambassador by the NDLEA.