The Edo State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to combating drug abuse and illicit drug trafficking through sustained awareness campaigns, prevention programmes, and community engagement initiatives aimed at building a drug-free society.
Mrs Edesili Anani, Chairperson of the Edo State Drug Control Committee, made this known while speaking at a news conference in Benin on Monday. She also serves as Coordinator of the Office of the Wife of the Edo Governor.
Anani announced the 2026 theme as: “The World Drug Problem: Persisting Issues, New Challenges and Innovative Responses.”
She noted that the theme underscores the need for governments, institutions, stakeholders and communities to collaborate in tackling the evolving challenges of substance abuse and drug-related crimes.
Anani identified poverty, unemployment, inadequate education and social inequality as major drivers of drug abuse and trafficking. She stressed the importance of addressing these root causes through prevention, treatment, rehabilitation and social support programmes.
The chairperson expressed concern over the emergence of new psychoactive substances and called for innovative approaches that combine law enforcement with education, public awareness and community participation.
She urged parents, teachers, healthcare professionals, community leaders, non-governmental organisations and the general public to work together in promoting healthy lifestyles and preventing substance abuse, especially among young people.
Anani disclosed that the state has lined up several activities, including public awareness campaigns, school sensitisation programmes and community outreach initiatives to educate residents on the dangers of drug abuse.
Also speaking, Commander of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) Edo State Command, Mitchell Ofoyeju, described substance abuse as a major public health challenge with serious social and economic consequences. He stressed the need for sustained awareness campaigns and behavioural change initiatives to reduce demand for illicit substances.
The Edo State Commissioner for Health, Dr Cyril Oshiomhole, assured the public of the ministry’s commitment to strengthening mental health services and expanding rehabilitation programmes. He noted that the ministry is implementing evidence-based interventions to reduce substance abuse and improve public health outcomes across the state.
