The National Council for Women Societies (NCWS), has advocated the implementation of policies and programmes to end drug abuse and illicit trafficking in the country.
The Acting National President of the council, Mrs Geraldine Ita-Etuk, made the call in a statement on Wednesday in Abuja, in commemoration of the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the 2024 theme for the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking is “The Evidence is Clear: Invest in Prevention.”
Ita-Etuk noted the effects of drug abuse, quoting the UNODC as saying that “over 35 million persons, globally suffer from drug use disorder, hence the need to urgently curb the menace”.
According to her, the National Council of Women Societies stands resolute in this commitment.
“We will continue to advocate for policies that support prevention, to champion educational initiatives, and to strengthen our communities.
“But we cannot do it alone. We need the support of government, businesses, educators, healthcare professionals, and every citizen.
“Together, we can build a society where prevention is prioritised, and where every individual has the opportunity to lead a healthy, fulfilling life,” she said.
Ita-Etuk who emphasised on the effects of drug abuse, urged the government and other stakeholders to invest more funds toward ending the menace and illicit trafficking of persons.
” Let us invest in prevention with unwavering determination. Let us work together to end the cycle of drug abuse and create a brighter, safer future for all,” she said. (NAN)
