The Nigeria Army Officers Wives Association (NAOWA) has stated that it intends to collaborate with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) to achieve a drug-free Nigeria.
President of NAOWA, Salamatu Yahaya, stated this when she led a delegation of its executives on a courtesy visit to NDLEA Chairman, Buba Marwa.
Mrs Yahaya commended Mr Marwa for the achievements recorded in the agency under his watch and asked for collaboration in the fight against illicit drugs in a statement issued on Saturday in Abuja by the Director, Media and Advocacy of NDLEA, Femi Babafemi.
The NAOWA president stated that partnering with the NDLEA will be mutually advantageous as the association intends to take the drug battle to the barracks.”
The NDLEA Chairman thanked NAOWA members for their visit and praised them for the commendable initiatives that have transformed the organization.
Mr Marwa, a former NAOWA liaison officer during his military career, emphasised the significance of the organisation in ensuring the success of career military officers.
He stated that NAOWA’s assistance would be required in reducing drug demand and supply, adding that addiction does not discriminate and can affect any family.
He urged NAOWA to use the NDLEA‘s 24/7 toll-free helpline: 080010203040, which was recently launched to assist drug-addicted people seeking help without stigma.
The NDLEA chief urged Mrs Yahaya to help establish counselling centers in barracks across the country to help people suffering from drug use disorders.
He asked NAOWA to assist in promoting drug tests for prospective couples, claiming that the fear of testing positive will deter potential users from engaging in drug use.
