The Edo State Governor, Senator Monday Okpebholo, the Edo Commander of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and other stakeholders have unanimously called for concerted efforts to dismantle drug trafficking cartels who cultivate cannabis and traffic illicit drugs.
This was the position of eminent leaders who gathered to commemorate the 2025 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, which was held at the Festival Hall, State House, Benin City.
Governor Okpebholo, in his address presented by the secretary to the state government, Musa Ikhilor, emphasised the urgent need for coordinated actions to dismantle drug syndicates that pose grave threats to society.
“We must stand firm against the drug trade that endangers the lives of our youth and disrupts our communities. Operations of drug trafficking cartels must be dismantled. Our position on crime control in Edo State is very clear. We are collaborating with the NDLEA to reduce cases of drug production, trafficking and abuse to the barest minimum in the state,” he stated.
Commander Mitchell Ofoyeju also echoed the governor’s position, underlining the NDLEA’s unwavering commitment to tackling drug trafficking and abuse in Edo State.
“We cannot allow drug barons to continue their destructive influence in the state. The life of every Edo citizen is precious and must be protected from derailment through drug misuse. We are prepared to collaborate with all stakeholders to eradicate this scourge and create a safer environment for all. The threats posed by illicit cannabis cultivation, drug trafficking, and abuse must therefore be neutralised,” he declared.
Mitchell expressed deep appreciation for the support of Okpebholo, emphasising his role in championing drug control efforts through his SHINE agenda, which focuses on security, healthcare, infrastructure, natural resources, and education. He highlighted the correlation between drug abuse and various societal issues, including increasing crime rates, healthcare burdens, and environmental degradation.
The event featured a series of goodwill messages from notable leaders like the Speaker of the Edo State House of Assembly, Rt. Honourable Adebaku Sheriff Blessing, and heads of security agencies, including the Commissioner of Police Monday Agbonika, the State Comptroller Nigeria Immigration Service, Martins Monyei, and the Commandant Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSDC) Gbenga Agun. Each representative highlighted their agencies’ dedication to enforcing laws against drug trafficking and ensuring the safety of the populace.
There was a panel discussion that focused on drug abuse control, where experts shared insights on prevention strategies and the importance of community involvement. The discussion aimed to foster greater awareness and inspire local initiatives to combat drug-related issues.
Discussants included Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady Mrs Edesili Okpebholo Anani, Executive Chairman of the Board for Technical and Vocational Education (BTVE) Barrister Briggs Onome and Chief Executive Officer of Smarce Group of Companies.
A quiz competition among nine secondary schools was conducted to test the knowledge of the students about the dangers of drug abuse and the importance of healthy lifestyle choices.
Mesh International School, Benin City, represented by Godfrey Shalom and Osaweweren Precious, took the first position. The second and third positions were occupied by Pioneer Educational Centre School II, represented by Ogieriaikhi Owen Joan and Evidence Ovigbe, and Pioneer Educational Centre School 1, represented by Aforke Champion Chika and Ikponwosa Victory, respectively.
The highlight of the event was a presentation of awards by the NDLEA Edo State Commander Mitchell to Governor Monday Okpebholo in appreciation of his outstanding leadership and unwavering support in the fight against drug trafficking and abuse. The Senior Special Assistant to the Governor of Edo State on Drugs and Illicit Trafficking Control, Hon. Andrew Oghenovo, was also honoured for his exceptional partnership in promoting anti-drug abuse awareness. Similarly, the Chairman Chief Executive Officer of Uyi Technical, Mr Francis Omoruyi, was rewarded for his exceptional service and commitment to the anti-narcotic campaign.
Honourable Andrew, in his remarks, noted that in recognition of the worrisome drug prevalence level in the state, Governor Okpebholo has decided to give priority attention to drug control through the establishment of his office and support for the NDLEA.
In his words, “The governor recognises the dangers of drug trafficking and abuse, and he is determined to address the drug problem in the state. He is also working with the NDLEA to construct a rehabilitation centre that will make treatment accessible to persons with drug abuse problems.”
The founder of New Bridges Foundation, Barrister Eghogho Okpebholo, motivated participants to renew their commitment to combating drug abuse, with a shared vision of building a healthier, drug-free Edo State.
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