Otti promises support for NDLEA in fight against drug abuse

 Governor Otti Pledges Support for NDLEA in War Against Drug Abuse

Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, has emphasized the need for a multi-faceted and intelligence-driven approach in tackling drug abuse and its connection to criminal activities.

Speaking on Thursday while receiving the newly appointed State Commander of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Nnadi Wilfred, at his residence in Nvosi, Isialangwa South Local Government Area, Otti expressed deep concern over the evolving nature of drug abuse and its role in fueling crime across the country.

The governor stressed the importance of collaboration between government and security agencies to effectively combat drug-related offenses, assuring the NDLEA of his administration’s full support in the fight against drug abuse and other forms of criminality in the state.

He noted that drug abuse and crime are deeply interconnected, as many individuals involved in criminal activities often start with substance abuse before engaging in more serious offenses.

“Whether it is the Army, Navy, DSS, or NDLEA, we are all working towards the same goal. Wherever support is needed, you can count on the government to assist in ridding our communities of criminal elements,” Otti affirmed.

Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to enhancing security, he advised the NDLEA leadership to collaborate with his Senior Special Assistant on Homeland Security to identify and dismantle hotspots for drug-related activities in the state.

Otti also underscored the role of education in crime prevention, stating that his government’s free and compulsory education policy for primary and secondary school children will significantly reduce the vulnerability of young people to drug abuse and criminal activities.

Earlier, NDLEA State Commander Nnadi Wilfred described his visit as part of a familiarization tour since assuming office in December 2024. He expressed gratitude to Governor Otti and his wife, Priscilla, for their active involvement in anti-drug awareness campaigns and their support for the rehabilitation of individuals recovering from substance abuse.

The meeting reinforced the state government’s commitment to strengthening security efforts and working closely with law enforcement agencies to combat drug abuse and crime across Abia State.