To address the growing challenges posed by drug trafficking as well as reduce drug- related crimes and other criminal activities, the federal government is partnering with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC).
The Minister of Youth Development, Comrade Ayodele Olawande, stated this when he received the UNODC team led by Cheikh Toure in his Abuja office Tuesday.
He stated that the partnership will promote social awareness and community resilience and ultimately foster a safer and healthier environment for all citizens.
Comrade Olawande stated that the collaboration aims to implement comprehensive strategies that not only target and reduce drug-related crime rates but also enhance public understanding of the issues surrounding drug abuse and trafficking.
Omolara Esan, the director of Information and Public Relations in the ministry quoted the minister as saying that for many years, young people have always had the feeling of being left out and do not believe the government is sincere.
He added that the young people feel disconnected from the government and unable to access support, which has contributed to a sense of disorientation in the society.
As a result, he observed, many young people are falling into the traps of drug addiction and crime. This trend, the minister stated, must change.
He pointed out that the persistent lack of meaningful engagement with the youth is a critical factor contributing to the low level of patriotism and the increasing frequency of protests.
“It is essential to implement strategies that actively engage young people in discussions and initiatives that shape our society. This not only fosters their commitment but also contributes to a brighter future for them. That is why President Bola Ahmed Tinubu initiated the National Youth Conference to address the comprehensive challenges facing the youth in our country,” Olawande stated.
Earlier, Cheikh Toure, the team leader of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), expressed his appreciation for the collaborative efforts.
