In a resolute effort to combat the alarming rise of drug abuse among youths, Pastor Patience Umo Eno, the First Lady of Akwa Ibom State, is calling on parents, caregivers, and Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) to prioritize prevention over cure. Her recent appeal underscores the vital importance of creating an environment that shields children from the clutches of drugs and illicit substances.
Pastor Patience Umo Eno, who also serves as the Chairperson of the Akwa Ibom State Drug Control Committee (AKSDCC), spoke passionately about the significance of taking proactive measures to avert drug abuse, rather than resorting to strenuous efforts to rescue victims already ensnared in its grasp. She highlighted this critical message during the 2023 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking event, a collaboration between the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and the Akwa Ibom State Drug Control Committee.
Under the theme “People First: Stop Stigmatization and Discrimination, Strengthen Prevention,” the event emphasized the need to address drug abuse by prioritizing prevention and ending the harmful practices of stigmatizing and discriminating against individuals in need of help. Pastor Patience Umo Eno stressed that preventing drug abuse requires educating youths with accurate information to navigate life’s challenges without falling victim to drug misuse.
The First Lady’s dedication to eradicating drug abuse was evident as she praised her predecessor, Dr. (Mrs.) Martha Emmanuel, for establishing a rehabilitation center for victims of drug abuse. She also commended the State Commander of NDLEA, Mrs. Obot Bassey, for the agency’s successful efforts in reducing drug abuse cases in the state. She highlighted the importance of comprehensive prevention and rehabilitation programs as the way forward in the battle against drug abuse.
Pastor Patience Umo Eno’s advocacy garnered further support from the State Deputy Governor, Senator Akon Eyakenyi, who urged all stakeholders to intensify efforts to educate youths about the dangers of drug abuse. She emphasized the necessity of equipping young people with assertive and refusal skills to protect them from drug predators.
During the event, Mrs. Obot Bassey, the Commander of NDLEA in Akwa Ibom State, shed light on the agency’s priority in 2023: a prevention strategy to reduce drug abuse cases while combating stigmatization and discrimination against victims. She revealed staggering statistics that underscored the extent of the problem and shared NDLEA’s efforts in arresting drug offenders, convicting individuals, and rehabilitating and reintegrating victims into society.
The occasion featured a panel discussion with esteemed panelists, who contributed insights on the issue. The event also included cultural performances and recognition of outstanding contributions in the fight against drug abuse.
Pastor Patience Umo Eno’s unwavering commitment to preventing drug abuse and her recognition as an Ambassador of NDLEA are testaments to her determination to create a drug-free environment in Akwa Ibom State. The event showcased the collaboration between various organizations, government agencies, and individuals, highlighting the collective efforts needed to overcome this pressing issue.
In conclusion, the call for prevention over cure echoes loudly in the efforts led by Pastor Patience Umo Eno and the AKSDCC. As the state and its stakeholders unite to address drug abuse, the message of unity and proactive action resounds, emphasizing the urgency of preventing the youth from falling into the trap of drug abuse and ensuring a healthier future for all.
