The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) FCT command has introduced new measures to combat drug abuse and illegal drug trafficking within the territory.

Mr. Kabir Tsakuwa, the FCT commander, shared this information in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja on Wednesday.

Tsakuwa emphasized that the FCT plays a pivotal role as a significant gateway connecting the southern region to other parts of the country, given the cosmopolitan nature of the city. To address this issue, the command has intensified its efforts at the main entry points.

In addition, there’s a focus on recreational centres such as parks and gardens, where a multitude of social activities occur. The commander also highlighted the implementation of well-planned, intelligence-driven motorised patrols along key entry routes, including the Abaji-Lokoja road, Gwagwalada-Kwali road, Bwari-Jere road, and Mararaba/Nyanya road.

“this has helped the command tremendously in checking those that may want to take advantage of the busy roads to traffic drugs along these routes into the FCT directly or on transit as the case may be.

According to him, we also embarked on aggressive advocacy visits to all the stakeholders within the FCT, particularly the traditional rulers, to ask for their supports.

“This has made the communities to be well informed of the need to owe the campaign against drug abuse and illicit trafficking.

“We also leverage on our call centre with phone No (080010203040) established by the NDLEA Chairman, retired Brig.- Gen. Buba Marwa.

“The platform is purposely created to enable the public pass information on 24/7 bases about drug activities in their areas.

” Or about drug dependent persons who may need help without having to disclose their identity for prompt action or response, ” he said.

Advising the youths on dangers of illicit drugs, the NDLEA boss urged youths to shun drug abuse and illicit trafficking noting that peer pressure was a major challenge for youths when it comes to drug abuse.

Tsakuwa advised them to live a drug free life by developing a resistive attitude and prepare a good excuse to guide against the pressure.

He said “Youths should confide in their parents any time they are put under pressure by their friends to engage in drug abuse.

According to him, youths should know their friends activities and pay attention to the whereabout of their friends as that would enable them know if they are engaged in drug abuse.

“Youths must strengthen their involvement in sports and other social activities like community events, computer classes, among others, instead of staying idle which may lead them to engaging in drug abuse.

“They should know that drug free life is possible, healthier and happier. Youths must develop a way to manage stress and avoid going to places where illicit drugs are sold or abused.

“Drugs alter perception, behavior and consciousness therefore say yes to drug free life, ” he said.

(NAN)