President Bola Tinubu has called upon African anti-narcotic agencies to implement stringent measures against substance abuse and the illicit trafficking of drugs. He emphasized the importance of Africa liberating itself from the grip of drug barons and criminal networks.
Tinubu delivered this message in Abuja during the opening of the 31st meeting of the Heads of National Drug Law Enforcement Agencies, Africa (HONLAF) at the Abuja Continental Hotel. Vice President Kashim Shettima, representing President Tinubu, urged African drug law enforcement agency heads to intensify their efforts in the ongoing fight against substance abuse and illegal drug trade within their respective nations.
He warned that Africa would remain in chains unless it broke free from the influence of drug barons and illegal drug trade networks. Tinubu highlighted that the drug menace transcended boundaries of race, geography, gender, and social status.
President Tinubu, who also serves as the chairman of the Authority of Heads of State and Government of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS), referred to the drug problem as a threat that recognized no boundaries.
He commended anti-narcotics agencies for consistently challenging criminal groups attempting to undermine security measures in African nations and corrupt the minds of their citizens.
Tinubu stressed the moral imperative of the fight against drug trafficking and substance abuse, emphasizing that a population battling drugs posed a liability rather than a dividend. He called on anti-narcotics agencies to strengthen existing connections, fortify operational partnerships, and foster collaboration at both sub-regional and regional levels. This, he argued, would create formidable barriers against the trafficking of illicit drugs and the mobility of drug syndicates within Africa.
President Tinubu urged attendees to view the conference as an opportunity for the exchange of innovative ideas and the development of practical strategies to advance public safety and drug-free African communities. He emphasized the need to prioritize prevention, education, and rehabilitation to empower African youth with knowledge and opportunities, steering them away from the treacherous path of drug abuse and trafficking.
In conclusion, President Tinubu assured attendees that his administration would continue to provide the necessary support, motivation, and tools for anti-narcotic agencies to fulfill their mandates. He recognized the profound connection between the success of the fight against substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking and the attainment of various socioeconomic and security goals.
