ISSUP Lagos Chapter Forges Crucial Partnership with NDLEA to Combat Substance Abuse Menace | Cliptv Online

International Society of Substance Use Prevention and Treatment Professionals (ISSUP) Joins Hands with NDLEA to Tackle Substance Abuse Crisis

The Lagos Chapter of the International Society of Substance Use Prevention and Treatment Professionals (ISSUP) recently embarked on a significant collaborative effort with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Lagos Command, in a bid to effectively combat the alarming issue of substance abuse in the region. Led by the Zonal Coordinator, Dr. (Mrs.) Olajumoke Koyejo, the ISSUP delegation paid a courtesy visit to the NDLEA Lagos State Command, advocating for a cohesive partnership to address the growing challenges posed by substance abuse.

The visit garnered attention due to the imperative need for combined efforts to address the escalating concern of substance abuse in Nigeria, particularly in Lagos. The ISSUP delegation was warmly received by prominent figures within the NDLEA, including ACGN Alhaji Umar Isah Adoro, the Lagos State Commander, and Mr. Segun Oke, the Zonal Commander for Zone ‘H’ (Lagos & Ogun).

During the visit, Dr. Olajumoke Koyejo emphasized the objective of fostering a synergistic relationship between ISSUP and NDLEA, as both organizations share the common goal of eradicating substance abuse. She highlighted that collaboration was essential to achieving the government’s objectives in areas such as prevention, treatment, advocacy, and research related to substance abuse.

“We have come to see how to collaborate with the organization and look at ways it could achieve the goal of reforming the organization. We totally believe that our synergy would achieve much more than if we worked individually and make Nigeria a better tomorrow,” Dr. Olajumoke Koyejo stated.

Mr. Segun Oke, the Zonal Commander for Zone ‘H’, lauded the fellowship between ISSUP and NDLEA, noting that the two entities needed to work together effectively to tackle the multifaceted challenges of substance abuse.

Addressing the delegation’s concerns, Alhaji Umar Isah Adoro, the Lagos State NDLEA Commander, expressed appreciation for the collaborative efforts initiated by ISSUP Lagos Chapter. He highlighted the gravity of substance abuse in Lagos State, emphasizing that it posed significant social and economic threats. The NDLEA Commander shared that the agency had intercepted substantial quantities of illicit drugs and had arrested numerous major dealers, with a recent focus on reducing demand through preventive measures.

Alhaji Isah Adoro also acknowledged the role of new media, particularly social media channels, in enhancing NDLEA’s campaigns against illicit drugs. He further expressed the agency’s synergy with various sectors, including healthcare, law enforcement, and education ministries, to comprehensively address the issue of substance abuse.

Dr. Adetolu Olatunde of ISSUP emphasized that their collaboration with NDLEA aimed at preventing individuals from succumbing to substance abuse and offering support to those seeking to break free from its grip. He noted that counseling efforts could play a crucial role in guiding individuals towards a path of recovery.

The collaboration between ISSUP Lagos Chapter and NDLEA holds promise for a more coordinated and impactful approach to tackling the substance abuse crisis. As both organizations pool their resources and expertise, the hope is that their joint efforts will contribute to a healthier and more drug-free society in Lagos and beyond.