On June 25th and 26th, 2025, the Milestone Initiative for Human Rights and Empowerment (MIHRE), with support from Heartland Alliance-Nigeria through the ViiV Healthcare Positive Action-funded project, partnered with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) Akwa Ibom State Command to commemorate the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking. This year’s theme, “Drug Abuse is Dangerous: Break the Chains, Prevent, Treat, and Promote Recovery,” guided a series of impactful activities that emphasised community collaboration, prevention, and the urgent need for humane responses to drug-related issues.
Day One: Sensitisation Road Walk
The two-day event began on June 25th with a vibrant and well-attended sensitisation road walk that started from the NDLEA State Command Headquarters and proceeded to Ibom Plaza, then returned. Participants included representatives from security agencies, civil society organisations, media, youth groups, and concerned community members. The procession served as a public awareness campaign against drug abuse, as participants engaged the public with fliers, banners, placards, and anti-drug messaging, emphasising the dangers of substance use and the importance of prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation.
Day Two: Symposium and Stakeholder Engagement
On June 26th, a high-level symposium was held at the Ibom Hall in Uyo, bringing together stakeholders across government, health, law enforcement, civil society, and community-based organisations. The seminar served as a platform for dialogue, knowledge exchange, and forward-thinking strategies for addressing drug abuse and supporting recovery.
In her remarks, the Coordinator of the Office of the First Lady of Akwa Ibom State, who also serves as the Chairperson of the State Drug Control Committee, reaffirmed her commitment to youth protection and community wellness. She emphasised the urgent need to integrate prevention efforts into schools, families, and community structures. In recognition of her advocacy and leadership, the NDLEA decorated her as a “War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) Ambassador,” acknowledging her outstanding role in championing drug control and rehabilitation efforts across the state.
The NDLEA Commandant’s Address
In a compelling address, CN Obot Bassey, the State Commandant of NDLEA Akwa Ibom, applauded the collaborative efforts of civil society, development partners, and the state government in tackling the drug menace. He stressed that drug abuse poses a significant threat to national development, family stability, and public safety. Commandant Bassey called for sustained investment in drug demand reduction strategies, noting that while law enforcement is important, the real victory lies in community awareness, preventive education, and access to treatment services.
He also acknowledged the unique vulnerabilities of young people and women, urging stakeholders to tailor interventions that address social drivers such as poverty, trauma, and unemployment. His message underscored the importance of embracing empathy and a health-based approach when dealing with people who use drugs.
MIHRE’s Commitment to Change
MIHRE’s Executive Director also delivered a powerful message, reiterating the organisation’s dedication to harm reduction, gender-sensitive programming, and advocacy for the health and rights of women who use and inject drugs. She highlighted the need for community-driven models and policy reforms that prioritise people over punishment, care over criminalisation.
Call to Action
The event concluded with a collective call to action for all stakeholders, government, civil society, community leaders, and the private sector to strengthen partnerships, prioritise prevention, promote recovery, and break the cycles of addiction and stigma.
By coming together across sectors and voices, we are creating a future where people are informed, supported, and empowered to live free from the grip of drug abuse.
#DrugFreeCommunity #NDLEAAKS #MIHRE #BreakTheCycle #WADA #HeartlandAlliance #viivhealthcare #PreventionWorks #HarmReduction
