The National Association of Women Journalists, NAWOJ, Lagos State Chapter is collaborating with the NDLEA to advocate against drug abuse, raise awareness, and foster a safer environment for future generations.
The Association’s Chairperson, Dr. Adeola Ekine gave the assurance during a courtesy visit to the state Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).
According to her, the visit was to commend the command’s efforts in tackling the menace of illicit drugs in Nigeria and to explore areas of collaboration between the agency and NAWOJ.
Dr. Adeola Ekine who also appreciated NDLEA’s ongoing efforts in combating the menace of drug supply, demand, and abuse reaffirmed the Association’s commitment to joining forces with the agency for a drug-free society.
She stated that female journalists’ primary commitment is to highlight societal issues, engage with the public, and drive positive change considering the rise in drug misuse, especially among young people, making a robust, multi-stakeholder approach essential.
Emphasizing the formalization of the collaboration, Dr. Ekine said the partnership has the potential to shape public perception of drug use and pave the way for long-term positive change
through impactful campaigns that touch the lives of families and communities. The goal is not only to address the effects of drug abuse but also to tackle its root causes by influencing policy, promoting a drug-free culture, and amplifying the voices of the vulnerable.
In response, the Deputy Commander, Mr. A K Makinde, representing the Commander, Lagos Strategic Command, Commander Abubakar Wali, expressed appreciation for NAWOJ’s visit and welcomed the association’s proposal. He confirmed the command’s readiness to support the association in her advocacy journey in taking the anti-drug abuse campaign to the grassroots, especially in schools, and market areas in the state.
The Deputy Commander for Operations and Training, Mr. Sulamua Shehu Mohammad added that the agency is happy to provide training support for NAWOJ to be equipped with the requisite knowledge needed to carry out advocacy.
Present at the meeting were, Deputy Commander Oladosu Bashir, Dep. Com. Solomon Akpan, Dep. Com. Owonifari Roland, and Dep. Superintendent Ifeoma
