…As DTSG Takes Awareness Campaign To Schools
A passionate appeal has been made to students in Delta State, and by extension Nigeria, to stay away completely from the use of Illicit Drugs and Drug abuse, as traces of drugs can be detected in the human bloodstream within 90 days after exposure.
The Assistant State Commander of National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Delta Command, Mr Silas Osagie, made the disclosure while addressing students of Owa Model Secondary School, Boji-Boji Owa, Dein Palace Secondary School, Agbor and Obiaruku Grammar School, Obiaruku in Delta North Senatorial District.
The visit was in continuation of the statewide “Drug Free Delta” campaign, an initiative of Delta State Orientation and Communications Bureau in collaboration with NDLEA.
He emphasized the need for students to focus on their studies, avoid bad company and report all illicit drug and drug abuse cases to their school head or principal, and encouraged the students to participate actively in the War Against Drug Activities (WADA).
Osagie told the students that due to alarming national statistics on youth drug abuse in Nigeria, the Delta State Government, through the State Orientation and Communications Bureau (DSOCB), in partnership with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), decided to bring the “Drug-Free Delta” awareness campaign to them.
Director-General of the Delta State Orientation and Communications Bureau, Dr Oghenesivbe, reiterated Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s commitment to achieving a “Drug-Free Delta” as a cornerstone of his MORE Agenda.
He stressed that remaining drug-free was crucial for the students to benefit from the good governance strides of Governor Oborevwori, warning that drug abuse could prematurely kill their dreams and aspirations.
“Governor Sheriff Oborevwori deeply cares for your well-being. He has entrusted the Delta State Orientation and Communications Bureau, to deliver this message of hope and empowerment: choose a drug-free path and unlock your full potential.”
The NDLEA Officer, Mr Silas Osagie corroborated the good intentions of the state government in the ongoing “Drug-Free Delta Campaign” by engaging the students in a discussion about the differences between licit and illicit drugs, sharing a cautionary tale, highlighting the dangers of accepting unknown substances from friends and relatives.
“A 15-year-old girl lost her virginity after unknowingly consuming Rohypnol. The drug clouded her judgment, rendering her vulnerable to exploitation.”
Osagie further elaborated on the far-reaching consequences of drug abuse, explaining that traces of drugs can remain detectable in an individual’s bloodstream for up to 90 days after exposure.
“This is why abstaining from drugs, except those prescribed by a medical professional, is essential,” he stressed.
A moving moment occurred when a student voluntarily disclosed her involvement in selling drugs, revealing the influence of her stepmother and a friend. This courageous act underscored the campaign’s impact, prompting a path for intervention and support.
Mr Festus Ngozi Nweke, the Principal of Owa Model Secondary School, expressed his gratitude to the State Government and Governor Oborevwori for prioritizing the well-being of Delta’s youth.
He pledged to reinforce the “Drug-Free Delta” message and strengthen the school’s “War Against Drug Abuse” (WADA) club, empowering students to become proactive advocates for a drug-free society.
The Principals of Dein Palace Secondary School and Obiaruku Grammar School, Messrs. Peter Obuseh and Enemuwe Azubuike, respectively, echoed these sentiments, reaffirming their commitment to fostering a drug-free learning environment.
