Delta State government has unveiled a comprehensive initiative to ensure a “Drug-Free Delta”, as part of a broader measures to stem the rising tide of substance abuse and its attendant social vices in the state.
The Director-General of the Delta State Bureau for Orientation and Communications, Dr. Fred Latimore Oghenesivbe, said at a media forum that Governor Sheriff Oborevwori is committed to tackling the menace head-on.
According to Dr. Oghenesivbe, the governor has been working tirelessly to ensure that Delta State is free from illicit drug trade through collaborative efforts with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and other security agencies.
“The Kwale and Agbor rehabilitation and counseling centers will soon be operational. Plans are in top gear for the completion of the two centers for both male and female victims of substance abuse,
”In addition to these initiatives, Delta State government is considering introducing mandatory drug testing for students seeking admission into tertiary institutions in the state. This move is aimed at discouraging youths from indulging in illicit drugs and substance abuse”.
Dr. Oghenesivbe emphasized the importance of good parenting in preventing substance abuse, urging parents to monitor their children’s peer groups and avoid over-pampering. He also appealed to government agencies responsible for music censorship to ensure that lyrics and contents are free from negative messages that promote substance abuse.
”The Delta State government has also garnered support from traditional rulers, with some royal fathers inaugurating sensitization campaign committees in their domains.
The Delta State Bureau for Orientation and Communications Director General emphasized that said the collaboration was to achieve zero tolerance for substance abuse in Delta State.
“We are committed to rehabilitating and reintegrating victims of substance abuse into society, providing them with necessary skills and support,
”With these initiatives, Delta State is poised to become a model for other states in the country in the fight against substance abuse”, Dr Oghenesivbe posited.
