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Stop stigmatising persons struggling with substance abuse, Marwa Asks Nigerians
Stop stigmatising persons struggling with substance abuse, Marwa Asks Nigerians
By: Michael Mike
The Chairman, National Drug law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (rtd) has called on Nigerians to stop stigmatising persons struggling with substance abuse.
Marwa made the appeal on Wednesday during a Special Anti-Drug Abuse Conference and Public Presentation of a book, titled “The Last Syndicate” in Abuja.
The event was organised by the NDLEA Celebrity Drug-Free Club to commemorate the 2023 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Trafficking.
Marwa said that the drug abuse call centre recently launched by the agency has afforded victims of drug abuse opportunity to get counselling anonymously without fear of stigmatisation.
The NDLEA boss, who was represented by the Director, Media and Advocacy, Mr Femi Babafemi, said the call centre with a toll-free help line was to enable victims of drug abuse to access counselling and treatment from the comfort of their homes.
“I am glad that the patronage of the centre by members of the public is very encouraging.
“This is because the gap that has over the years existed between those who are struggling with substance abuse and the treatment they need has been bridged.
“This is also because, now they do not have the fear of being judged or fear of stigmatisation,”he said.
Marwa commended the Celebrity Drug Free Club for their commitment to the fight against drug abuse in the society and promised to continue supporting them.
“The club is a platform set up by celebrities to advance the campaign against substance abuse in the country, first within the industry where they operate and then to the larger society.
“We believe this would help to positively influence their fans and followers especially on social media.
“This would help them stay away from substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking. We must also know that indeed the agency supported some of their efforts.”
He said that the theme of the celebration, ‘People First: Stop Stigma and Discrimination, Strengthen Prevention’, reaffirmed the importance of protecting humanity from the consequences of illicit drugs and substance abuse.
The NDLEA boss therefore urged the agency’s stakeholders to continue to promote the campaign against substance abuse.
Speaking, the Coordinator, NDLEA Celebrity Drug Free Club, Mr Wilson Ighodalo expressed gratitude to the NDLEA boss for his support.
Ighodalo said that it was important to reflect on the global challenge of illicit drugs and substance abuse and take appropriate action.
He explained that the International Day against Drug Abuse and Drug Trafficking was principally to strengthen actions and cooperation in achieving the goal of a world free of drug abuse.
“The theme of the World Drug Day resonated with the Club vision of getting people involved in global campaigns.
“This year’s theme raises awareness about importance of treating people who use drugs with respect, empathy and providing evidence based quality service for all.
“We would continue to work with Celebrities with good track records to advance the campaign, “he said.
Also, the Emir of Keffi, Dr Shehu Yamusa, regretted that drug abuse has become prevalent in the country, and should be urgently tackled before it completely ruin the future of the youths.
“The problem can be tackled if we all play our roles in the eradication of drug abuse.
“Parents should try to notice signs of addiction in their children. If all stakeholders, parents, community, play their part, the fight against drug abuse will be won,” the emir said.
The author of the book, Mr Mitchell Ofoyeju, said that the publication was an anti-drug message for all citizens.
Ofoyeju, an NDLEA officer, said eliminating the menace of drug abuse and illicit trafficking would require collective action by all well-meaning citizens.
“All hands must be on deck to ensure that the issue of drug abuse and illicit trafficking is tackled collectively,” he added.
Stop stigmatising persons struggling with substance abuse, Marwa Asks Nigerians
Tax Reform Bills, Southern Borno Concerned Citizens Stands With Senator Ndume
By: Balami Lazarus
The Southern Borno Concerned Citizens has made her position clearl on the tax reform bills.
In a press release issued recently to newsmen in Maiduguri signed by her National Chairman/ Spokenman Comrade Bulama Ali Haruna Sawa said that the organization is standing firm with Senator Ali Ndume on tax reform bills.
“In reality Senator Ndume stands has only bolstered our support for his commitment to our welfare.” It further said that government should consider tax relief for the suffering masses “this is a time when our government should be considering tax relief , as seen in neighbouring countries.”
The organization disputed the fallacies of one Adamu Bashir of the so called “Northern Redemptions Colliations” regarding the position of Senator Ali Ndume, on the tax reform bills submitted by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to the National Assembly.
“We feel compelled to counter the fallacies in Bashir’s recent response to Senator Ndume interview on channels TV. “
Finally, the statement said that they strongly affirm that the people of Southern Borno are satisfied with Senator Ndume’s representation and stand with him.
Tax Reform Bills, Southern Borno Concerned Citizens Stands With Senator Ndume
VP Shettima Demands More Community-Oriented Leadership, Legacy-Building
*** Commissions Mosque in Ogbomoso, warns against selfishness
By: Our Reporter
Vice President Kashim Shettima has called on Nigerians, especially leaders, to exemplify true leadership by prioritizing community service and legacy-building over personal gain.
He urged Nigerians to prioritise spiritual obligations and community service over personal interests in an era where people are becoming more individualistic and giving less premium to God.
Speaking on Friday during the inauguration of the Ibapon Central Mosque in Ogbomoso, Oyo State, the Vice President expressed worry about the shifting societal values in contemporary Nigeria.
“Today, the world is unfortunately marked by a mindset that values self-interest over selflessness, and many see giving back or even engaging in spiritual obligations as burdens or distractions,” VP Shettima said.
According to him, the Mosque, a multi-million naira project built by Senator Abdulfatai Omotayo Buhari representing Oyo North Senatorial District, is a “gift for generations” that stands in stark contrast to prevailing materialistic trends.
“Every second of our lives is a reminder of our impermanence, and the brevity of life underscores the urgency of filling our days with deeds that matter in the hereafter,” the VP added.
VP Shettima lauded the project, describing it as an example of Sadaqah Jariyah (continuous charity), noting that such initiatives represent the kind of legacy-building that society desperately needs.
“This is a legacy, a bridge between this world and the next, grounded in kindness and devotion,” he stated.
In a pointed message to political leaders and wealthy Nigerians, Shettima questioned the lasting impact of material accumulation: “We must ask ourselves—what remains when this race ends? In the end, all that endures are the records of our selfless deeds, our adherence to our faith, and our acts of charity.”
The new religious edifice is expected to serve as a major spiritual centre for Muslims in Ogbomoso and surrounding communities, with the Vice President expressing hope that it will “be a source of spiritual strength and inspiration for this community and beyond.”
Earlier, Deputy President of the Senate, Senator Barau Jibrin, also eulogised Senator Buhari, saying the Mosque project was not just a service to the Muslim Ummah but to humanity at large.
“My prayer is that God reward you with Al-Jannatul Firdaus. You are an epitome of good character and someone who is always at the forefront of service to this country and humanity at large,” he said.
On his part, Oyo State Deputy Governor, Barr. Abdul-Raheem Adebayo Lawal, said the immediate family of Senator Buhari would be proud to have someone who makes them very proud all the time.
“On behalf of the Governor of Oyo State, we appreciate the Vice President for coming to our state,” he said.
He said the Mosque project is not just a physical building but a spiritual exercise in which the reward extends beyond one’s earthly life.
“It is also a means of spiritual purification and unity, fostering the unity of Nigeria because whenever we worship, we call for the unity and peace of Nigeria,” he added.
Responding, Senator Buhari said it was indeed an honour and a dream come true for him to have completed the Mosque project.
He specifically thanked the Vice President, the governors of Oyo and Kwara States, members of the National Assembly, and community members who contributed to the success of the worship centre.
There was also a welcome address by the Aare Musulumi of Ogbomosoland and the turbaning of two Imams for the newly commissioned Mosque.
Other officials at the event included the Governor of Kwara State, Alhaji AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq; the Soun of Ogbomoso Land, Oba Afolabi Ghandi Olaoye, state government officials and traditional rulers.
VP Shettima Demands More Community-Oriented Leadership, Legacy-Building
News
NIGERIAN ARMY RESOURCE CENTRE CONCLUDES LEADERSHIP AND STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT COURSE FOR SECURITY AND MILITARY OFFICERS
NIGERIAN ARMY RESOURCE CENTRE CONCLUDES LEADERSHIP AND STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT COURSE FOR SECURITY AND MILITARY OFFICERS
By: Our Reporter
The Nigerian Army Resource Centre (NARC) concluded the fifth and final session of its Executive Leadership and Strategic Management Course. This intensive program, spanning from 23 September to 8 November, trained senior and mid-level officers from the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC), the Nigerian military, and other security agencies. The course, organised by NARC in collaboration with the EFCC, aligns with NARC’s vision to be a leading think tank focused on research, knowledge advancement, and sustainable development solutions.
The graduation ceremony was graced by Major General Garba Ayodeji Wahab (Rtd), Director General of NARC, and the EFCC Secretary, Mr. Mohammad Hassan Hamman-Joda, representing the EFCC Chairman, Executive Director Consult, Major General AS Ndalolo, management staff of NARC, and consultants. Highlights included the presentation of certificates to the course participants, souvenir presentations to dignitaries and resource persons, and the decoration of key NARC figures with the EFCC Crest as Ambassadors for Anti-Corruption. The event took place at Hall F, ML Agwai Block, NARC.
NIGERIAN ARMY RESOURCE CENTRE CONCLUDES LEADERSHIP AND STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT COURSE FOR SECURITY AND MILITARY OFFICERS
Tax Reform Bills, Southern Borno Concerned Citizens Stands With Senator Ndume
VP Shettima Demands More Community-Oriented Leadership, Legacy-Building
NIGERIAN ARMY RESOURCE CENTRE CONCLUDES LEADERSHIP AND STRATEGIC MANAGEMENT COURSE FOR SECURITY AND MILITARY OFFICERS
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