By Okafor Sebastine

In the quest to eradicate drug abuse and addiction to hard drugs in Enugu North Local Government Area, the Council Chairman, Dr. Ibenaku Harford Onoh, met with the Commander, Narcotics of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Mr. Abel Sunu, to discuss strategies that will aid drug interceptions and intervention across the 13 political wards in the council.

The meeting, which took place on Wednesday at the State Headquarters of NDLEA located at Independence Layout, Enugu, brought to the fore a fruitful discussion focused on strengthening collaboration between the agency and Enugu North Local Government Area. The aim is to enhance intelligence gathering, encourage proactive community involvement, and build stronger structures for swift, coordinated responses.

Addressing newsmen after the meeting, Dr. Ibenaku Harford Onoh stated that the council is currently exploring ways to better align efforts in safeguarding critical areas in the council.

He explained that his leadership has identified hard drug intake as a major threat to the growth and well-being of youths in the area.

“We are not just paying attention to the symptoms; we are going deep to tackle the root of this issue. Our goal is to cut off the supply chain and offer genuine help to those already affected. This is not a fight we can win alone, which is why working with agencies like the NDLEA is vital,” Dr. Onoh said.

“Our young people deserve a future free from the dangers of drug abuse. Through this collaboration, we hope to reach them before the streets do. Rehabilitation, education, and vigilance must go hand in hand if we are to reclaim our communities.”

Dr. Onoh also stated that this move aligns with the vision of Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah in addressing challenges associated with hard drug use across the state.

Also speaking, the Commander, Narcotics of NDLEA, Mr. Abel Sunu, praised Dr. Onoh for his efforts towards improving the welfare of residents in Enugu North Local Government.

He stated that the partnership with the council is timely, as it will strengthen their shared efforts in securing the area and safeguarding future generations.

He also commended the efforts of Governor Peter Ndubuisi Mbah in making Enugu one of the safest states in Nigeria, while also emphasizing the importance of staying ahead in the fight against hard drug intake through sustained enforcement and inter-agency cooperation.