Osun state Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke has described the Imole War Against Drug Abuse (IWADA) as a mission to Secure the future of youths and students in the state.
He further reaffirmed his commitment to fighting drug abuse in the state, promising to expand the IWADA campaign to every corner of the state.
The Governor made this known while receiving the Imole War Against Drug Abuse (IWADA) team, led by Commissioner for Federal Affairs, Hon. Adenike Adeleke, at his office in Abere, Osun State.
While speaking, Governor Adeleke described the initiative as more than a program, emphasizing that it is a mission to save the lives of young people from the dangers of drug abuse.
“This project is close to my heart. I see it not just as a programme but as a mission to secure the future of our youths and students. Drug abuse is a threat to that future. It destroys health, families and dreams”, he noted
He, continued by commending the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency NDLEA for their ongoing efforts in tackling drug-related issues.
“Even with these efforts, we can still do more. I urge the NDLEA to strengthen its operations across our borders and communities. Let us ensure that our State is not used as a passage for illicit drugs. We must protect our young people from these dangerous influences.
“I want to assure you all that my government will continue to support IWADA in every possible way. We will provide the backing and resources needed to take this campaign to every corner of the State”, he added
In her remarks, Commissioner for Federal Matters, Hon. Adenike Adeleke expressed gratitude to the Governor for supporting the campaign so far.
She highlighted the program’s impact in schools across Osun State noting that IWADA clubs had been inaugurated in all visited schools and that educational songs were being aired on radio to enlighten students with knowledge of drug laws.
“His Excellency objective for this campaign is clear, it’s to highlight proactive intervention. The Federal Ministry is proud to partner with NDLEA and Ministry of Education.
“The next phase is reaching out to communities and door to door sanitation by 2026. We thank you once again sir”, she added.
Earlier in his address, Barr. Omotosin John, Zonal Commander representative for Osun and Oyo States, praised the initiative, stating that IWADA brings light, protection, and hope to vulnerable youths.
He also disclosed that 5,079 students has been enlightened through the program in different secondary schools in Osun State while commending the partnership between the NDLEA and the Osun State government.
“When I heard about IWADA I was encouraged. I’m also delighted because Imole brings light, protection and hope.
“Drug abuse is bad, it cut our lives. We are happy to be here today because prevention is better and cheaper than cure, 5,079 students has been enlightened through our Enlightenment program in various schools in Osun State. This is highly commendable,” the commandant emphasized.
Afterwards, awards were presented to Governor Adeleke and Hon. Adenike Adeleke in recognition of their support for the anti-drug campaign.
