Gombe: NDLEA canvasses collective action against drug abuse
By Hajara Leman
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), on Saturday, called for collective action to address the spate of drug abuse in Gombe State.
Mr.Adamu Karami, NDLEA Commander in the state, said this during the 2026 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.
The public awareness creation exercise was being organised in collaboration between the agency, MTN Foundation, the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) and other partners.
The exercise aims to raise awareness about the dangers of substance abuse and promote healthy lifestyle among young people.
Karami said the increasing rate of drug abuse among youths was a source of concern, that required strong collaboration among government agencies, private organisations, parents and communities.
He reiterated commitment of the agency to curb the menace through enforcement and sensitisation, adding that the fight against drug abuse could only succeed through collective efforts.
“Prevention remains a shared responsibility among stakeholders. Drug abuse is not just the responsibility of NDLEA, parents, schools, religious leaders, community members and organisations all have vital roles to play in the prevention and awareness creation,” he said.
Mrs Mary Ogunbodede, Manager of Impact Reporting, MTN Foundation, said the organisation would continued to support initiatives aimed at empowering young people and addressing social challenges.
She emphasised the importance of continuous sensitisation activities to discourage drug abuse and encourage positive behavioural change among the youths.
Miss Sarah Paul, a corps member, urged young people to shun illicit substances and focus on activities that would enhance their personal growth and prospects.
“Drug abuse destroys dreams and limits opportunities. Young people must make informed choices and avoid anything that could jeopardise their future,” she said.
Highlights of the event featured awareness walk from the Federal College of Education (FCE), through major streets in the Gombe metropolis and terminated at the Gombe State University (GSU).
Participants carried placards bearing messages such as “Don’t Let Drugs Cancel Your Future,” and “Prevention is Collective,” while engaging residents on the dangers associated with illicit drug use
