Mrs. Otti Champions Drug Abuse Prevention in Abia
…..as NDLEA, State Government Lead Awareness Walk
As part of activities marking the 2025 United Nations International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, the Abia State Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), in collaboration with the Abia State Government, organized an anti-drug awareness walk through the city of Umuahia.
This year’s commemoration, themed “The Evidence is Clear: Invest in Prevention (Break the Cycle, Stop Organised Crime)”, brought together key stakeholders, civil society groups, youth organizations, and state agencies in a united front against the scourge of drug abuse and illicit trafficking.
Speaking at the event, the wife of the Governor of Abia State, Her Excellency Mrs. Priscilla Chidinma Otti, reaffirmed the commitment of the state government to support initiatives that prevent drug abuse, protect the youth, and promote a culture of wellness.
Abia First lady represented by the wife of the Deputy Governor, Mrs. Adaeze Chidera Emetu, the Governor’s wife emphasized the importance of collective responsibility in building a society that empowers, supports, and uplifts its people.
“Our youth have limitless potential and a bright future ahead. We must continue to guide, inform, and protect them from the dangers of substance abuse,” she said, while commending the NDLEA for its dedication and resilience in the fight against drug abuse.
On his part, the Acting State Commander of NDLEA, Abia Command, Deputy Commander of Narcotics (DCN) Chigbu Odoemelam Chilee, highlighted the critical role of prevention in breaking the cycle of drug abuse and organized crime. He called for increased investments in family life, youth-oriented programmes, mental health care, and drug education.
“Organised crime often stems from societal issues such as poverty, lack of education, broken families, and unresolved trauma,” DCN Chilee noted. “If we treat addiction as a public health issue and invest in preventive mechanisms, we will make a lasting impact—starting with our children before they are exposed to the streets.”
The walk also featured the active participation of the Abia State Orientation Agency, led by its Director General, Lady Ure Abazie; the International Society of Substance Use Professionals (ISSUP); and groups of National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members, who lent their voices and presence to the campaign.
Her Excellency Mrs. Priscilla Otti continues to champion the fight against drug abuse in the state, urging all stakeholders to remain vigilant, proactive, and united in safeguarding the future of Abia’s youth.
