The Chairman of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa has urged Nigerian youths to take advantage of skills acquisition and empowerment programmes as a means of avoiding substance abuse and other social vices.
Marwa made the call in Abuja during the training and empowerment programme for 10,000 young Nigerians in practical skills, organised by a non-governmental organisation (NGO).
Speaking at the event, the NDLEA boss stressed the importance of engaging young people in productive ventures, noting that empowerment initiatives provide alternatives that safeguard youths from drug abuse and criminal activities.
He expressed satisfaction that the programme aligns with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu’s administration, which focuses on youth empowerment, skills development, job creation, and social inclusion.
Marwa also emphasised that tackling societal challenges such as drug abuse requires collective responsibility, stating that the government alone cannot solve all societal problems.
“The fight against drug abuse and associated crimes is everybody’s business,” he said.
He further encouraged stakeholders, development partners, and other nation builders to collaborate with the NDLEA in designing and implementing programmes that equip young people with practical skills and opportunities.
According to him, such initiatives will help provide youths with “skills, dignity, purpose, and a sense of belonging,” thereby reducing their vulnerability to drug abuse and related crimes.
