The Director General of Oyo State Mobilization Agency for Socio-Economic Development (OYMASED), Dr Morohunkola Thomas has pledged his commitment to the fight against illicit drug use in the state.
Dr Morohunkola Thomas made the pledge while on a courtesy visit to the Oyo State Command of the Nigeria Drug Law Enforcement Agency headed by CDR Olayinka Carlton Joe-Fadile in his office at Onireke Link Reservation, Ibadan.
The OYMASED DG said by working together, both agencies can leverage their expertise and resources to create a safer and healthier community.
Dr. Thomas stated that illicit drugs are a catalyst for crime and socio-cultural problems. He noted that in every crime committed or socio-cultural problem, there is always a trace of illicit drug use. This highlights the need for a comprehensive approach to addressing drug use.
The OYMASED Director General also outlined his agency’s mission to provide and promote orientation to enlighten the masses about the dangers of illicit drugs. He emphasized that everybody dealing with illicit drugs cannot be positively involved in socio-economic development.
Oyo State Commander, CDR. Olayinka Carlton Joe-Fadile, commended the state government for establishing OYMASED. He acknowledged that despite NDLEA’s efforts, some individuals still disregard the law, but believed that OYMASED’s establishment would provide a valuable partnership in mobilizing Oyo State people to shun the use of illicit drugs.
The NDLEA commander urged OYMASED to concentrate more on educating the elite and parents in society, as they are the origin of the problem.
He pledged to mobilize NDLEA staff to work with OYMASED in order to ensure that Oyo State becomes an illicit drug-free society.
