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Mrs. Abimbola Fashola (L) presenting the trophy to the winner of the competition to mark the 2009 UN International Day Against Drug Abuse.


Mrs. Abimbola Fashola (2nd L) presenting the trophy to the Runnerup of the competition to mark the 2009 UN International Day Against Drug Abuse.

Speeches

Jun 26, 2009 - 2009 United Nations International Day Against Drug And Illicit Trafficking

It gives me great pleasure to be here today as we join the rest of the world to observe the year 2009 United Nations International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Drug Trafficking in line with the United Nations General Assembly resolution of December 1987. This resolution was in recognition of the dangers inherent in drug abuse and an expression of the determination of the global body to address the drug menace.

There is no gainsaying the fact that drug trafficking which is the focus of the theme for this year “Do Drugs Control Your Life” is a global challenge and one of the most serious organised crime problem in the world today. Drug trafficking is just like the cultivation of cannabis which was the focus last year, is a major issue in the supply chain with formidable network around the world.

Today, the harmful and destructive effects of drug on the society is no longer in question as studies have shown that about 70% of violent crime are committed under the influence of cannabis and other illicit drugs. Given the negative consequences of drug addiction especially on our youths, one of the major strategies by which we can address this challenge is full commitment to the fight against drug trafficking which is a major means by which illicit drugs are made available for consumption.

We must sustain the campaign against drug abuse and trafficking through continuous education and enlightenment of the populace on the evil consequences of drug on the society.

I enjoin all our people particularly the youths to embrace the virtues of hard work, discipline and to resist the temptation to get involved in illicit drug trafficking as a means of making quick money which of course, is at the expense of the general security of the society and many lives that are being destroyed as a result of drug addiction.

I commend the efforts of the Interministerial Drug Abuse Control Committee and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency particularly in the area of sensitization and enlightenment campaign in our schools. It is my hope that the local government chapters of the drug abuse control committees which I am informed are set for re-launch will strengthen the fight against drug abuse and trafficking at the grassroot level.

Once again, I wish to use this opportunity to enjoin everyone to stay off drugs and not indulge in drug trafficking.

Let us join in this campaign by supporting the NDLEA and other relevant agencies with useful information that will assist them in their efforts to make Lagos State and Nigeria a drug free society.

Thank you and God bless you all.

Her Excellency
Mrs. Abimbola Fashola
First Lady of Lagos State