In order to combat the growing scourge of substance abuse among youths, the Edo State Government through the office of the State Ministry of Social Development and Gender Issues has embarked on a comprehensive sensitization programme.
The initiative, themed ‘Catch Them Young’, aims to educate school children and stakeholders on the dangers of substance abuse, underscoring the urgency of the issue and the importance of awareness.
The programme began on October 10 in Auchi, Etsako West Local Government Area in Edo North, and will be extended to Edo Central and Edo South senatorial districts later this month.
The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Social Development and Gender Issues, Mrs Barbara Osobajo, who was epresented by the Director of the Rehabilitation Department, Mr. Sylvester Okeguale, disclosed that drug-related issues account for the majority of young people requiring rehabilitation and the ministry has initiated this critical programme to combat substance abuse.
“Our children are the future, but the future is now under threat due to the alarming rate of drug abuse amongst young people,” Osobajo said.
“We must act now to prevent this menace from destroying our youth,” she said.
Chairman of the Etsako West Local Government Council, Hon. Zibiri Muhizu Marvelous, in his remarks applauded the state government’s efforts, emphasizing the critical need for community engagement.
He said addressing drug abuse requires a multifaceted approach involving parents, educational institutions and community organizations.
Calling for a united front to ensure that youths receive the necessary guidance and support, he noted the crucial role parents play in preventing substance abuse and encouraged them to stay actively involved in their children’s lives to mitigate the influence of peer pressure.
Pioneer of the programme, Mr Purpose Ehigie, highlighted the risks associated with prescription medication, alcohol and other seemingly harmless drugs. Ehigie asserted that curbing substance abuse-driven mental health issues among youths calls for vigilance.
According to him, early education and intervention are key towards empowering children and adolescents to develop healthy habits and coping mechanisms.
“This approach aims to catch them young and foster a safer, healthier future,” he said.
