By Solomon Ewela, Benin
Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo and the state Commander, National Drug Law Enforcement Agency NDLEA along with other stakeholders have called for concerted efforts to dislodge drug trafficking cartels cultivating cannabis and trafficking illicit drugs in the state.
This was position taken when the stakeholders gathered to commemorate the 2025 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, which was held at the Festival Hall, State House, Benin City.
Governor Okpebholo, in his address presented by the secretary to the state government, Musa Ikhilor, emphasised the urgent need for coordinated action to dismantle drug syndicates as they pose grave threat to society.
NDLEA Commander Mitchell Oforyeju also echoed the governor’s position, underlining the NDLEA’s commitment to tackling drug trafficking and abuse in Edo State. He expressed deep appreciation for the governments support, emphasising his role in championing drug control efforts through his SHINE agenda, which focuses on security, healthcare, infrastructure, natural resources, and education.
He highlighted the correlation between drug abuse and various societal issues, including increasing crime rates, healthcare burdens, and environmental degradation.
The event featured a series of goodwill messages from prominent individuals including the Speaker Edo State House of Assembly, Blessing Adebaku and heads of security agencies, including the Edo Commissioner of Police, Monday Agbonika, the State Comptroller Nigeria Immigration Service, Martins Monyei and the Commandant Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps NSDC, Gbenga Agun.
Each speaker highlighted their agencies’ dedication to enforcing laws against drug trafficking and ensuring the safety of the populace.There was a panel discussion that focused on drug abuse control, where experts shared insights on prevention strategies and the importance of community involvement.
The discussions were aimed at fostering greater awareness and inspire local initiatives to combat drug-related issues. Discussants included Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady, Edesili Okpebholo Anani, Executive Chairman of the Board for Technical and Vocational Education BTVE, Briggs Onome
The highlight of the event was the presentation of an award by the NDLEA Edo State Commander Ofiryeju to Governor, Monday Okpebholo in appreciation of his outstanding leadership and unwavering support in the fight against drug trafficking and abuse.
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