WORLD DRUG DAY COMMEMORATION
The Edo State College of Health Sciences and Technology, Benin City today 26/06/25 joined the Programmme organized by Edo State Government in conjunction with the National Drug Laws Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) to commemorate the World Drug Day.
The programme which was titled International Day Against Drugs Abuse and Illicit Trafficking with the theme: THE EVIDENCE IS CLEAR, INVEST IN PREVENTION took place at the Festival Hall, Government House, Benin City.
Attending this programme on behalf of EDOCOHEST were the Provost, Dr. Moyo Kasim, Registrar Mr. Sunday Ogbemudia, College Librarian Dr. Mrs. Titilayo Illesanmi. Also in attendance was the Dean of Students Affairs, Dr. Osezua Ozinegbe, Mr. Macaulay Afe, Public Relations Officer, and Mrs. Endurance, Hostel Manager, Mr. Destiny Osamudiamwen including the students of EDOCOHEST.
From the keynotes speakers, today’s World Drug Day programme underscore the importance awareness creation, inclusion of Drugs Education in the national school curriculum, and rehabilitation policies.
The governor of Edo State was represented by the Secretary to the State Government Barr. Umar Musa Ikhilor who stated that the fight against drug trafficking requires concerted efforts across boards. He emphasized the readiness of the Senator Okpebholo’s administration to partner with the youths in the fight against criminality and other social vices.
Also speaking was the Speaker, Edo State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Blessing Agbebaku who openly declared that we should collectively say no to drugs and yes to:
1. Education and empowerment
2. Community engagement
3. Hope and resilience.
On his part, the State Commandant, NDLEA Edo State, Commander Mitchell Ofoyeju stated that to eliminate, and abase the scourge of drugs abuse in both secondary and higher institutions, heads of institutions must be proactive and strategic in their approach to detection and identification of students indulging in drug abuse. He appealed to students to shun drugs abuse and Illicit crimes considering its widespread consequences.
Also, the Senior Special Assistant – SSA on Drugs Abuse and Trafficking, Mr. Andrew Efe thanked the Executive Governor of Edo State for strategically considering and including the youths in his fight against drugs abuse towards ensuring a safer and healthy Edo State.
Activities featured in the programme include quiz competition for secondary students, Keynotes presentations, and
Drama by the the youth corpers – NYSC.
The ceremony ended with a gifts presentation to the Executive Governor, and some state government officials include private individuals.
Macaulay Afe
Public Relations Unit, EDOCOHEST.
26/06/25