Kogi State has inaugurated a 26-member Drug Control Committee to tackle rising substance abuse.
Officials say the initiative aligns with Nigeria’s National Drug Control Master Plan and prioritizes prevention, treatment, and enforcement.
The Kogi State Government has inaugurated a 26-member Drug Control Committee as part of efforts to address drug abuse and its social impact. The move aligns with Nigeria’s National Drug Control Master Plan (NDCMP).
Speaking at the launch in Lokoja on Saturday, the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Folashade Arike Ayoade, described drug abuse as a growing threat that required urgent action.
“We are all aware of the damage caused by hard drugs in our society. This committee has been set up to significantly reduce the circulation and consumption of illicit substances across Kogi State,” she said, adding that Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo’s administration would not allow the state to become a haven for traffickers or users.
She urged members of the committee to collaborate, hold regular meetings, and work toward creating a safer environment for residents.
The committee comprises representatives from the NDLEA, Ministries of Health, Education, Information, Youth and Sports, Women Affairs, Local Government, traditional institutions, local councils, youth groups, pharmaceutical associations, NGOs, and faith-based organizations.
Responding, NDLEA Kogi Commander, Umar Mustapha Yahuza who co-chairs the committee with the governor’s wife, Hajia Sefinat Usman Ododo pledged to intensify operations to achieve the objectives of the NDCMP. He thanked the governor for reviving the committee and reaffirmed the agency’s readiness to deliver results.
The initiative reflects Nigeria’s broader drug control policy, which began with the NDCMP 2015–2019 and has now been updated for 2021–2025. The current plan prioritizes prevention, treatment, rehabilitation, reintegration, and enforcement, while encouraging states to adopt local structures to combat drug abuse.
Kogi’s renewed efforts come amid increasing seizures nationwide, including NDLEA’s recent interception of 11.3kg of cannabis concealed in microwaves imported from Thailand.
