In an effort to combat drug abuse especially among students, pregnant women and in parks, the Ogun State Government is proposing the formulation of policies and laws that will empower health practitioners in the fight against the menace.

          The Special Adviser to the Governor on Health, Dr. Tomi Coker revealed this while playing host to the officials of the National Drug Law and Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in her office at Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, noting that preventive programmes and awareness campaigns targeting schools, pregnant women and motor parks are in the pipeline.

          Dr. Coker said it was imperative to look into laws that would give the fight against the menace full backing, adding that it was important to engage relevant stakeholders and solicit their cooperation to address the issues collectively.        

          She stated that a multi-faceted approach involving education, rehabilitation and enforcement was essential in combating the menace, assuring officials of NDLEA of the government's commitment.

          In his presentation, the Commandant, NDLEA, Ogun State Chapter, Commander Ibiba Odili said there was an urgent need to address the rising incidence of drug abuse in schools and motor parks as it poses a significant threat to the well-being and the overall socio-economic development of the society, emphasising the importance of collaborative efforts between government agencies and communities.

          The Director, Pharmaceuticals Services, Pharm Kayode Shotunde, said the optimal interest of the State government was to eradicate drug abuse totally in the State and its environs, saying though they have a cordial relationship with NDLEA but will intensify the collaboration to achieve this.