By Evelyn Usman

The Murtala Mohammed International Airport, MMIA Strategic Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency NDLEA on Saturday, held a road walk to commemorate the United Nations Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Drug Trafficking.

The awareness walk, which commenced at 7:30 a.m. from the NAHCO Complex, headquarters of the command, attracted participation from sister security agencies, including the Nigeria Police Force and the Nigeria Customs Service.

Participants marched from the Pilgrim Gate to the bridge at 7/8 and back to the starting point, making intermittent stops to sensitise members of the public and communities along the route on the dangers of drug abuse and illicit trafficking.

The exercise drew cheers and commendation from residents and airport users, many of whom applauded the anti-drug campaign efforts of the NDLEA under the leadership of its Chairman/Chief Executive, Brigadier General Mohammed Buba Marwa (retd).

Addressing participants at the end of the walk, the Commander of the MMIA Strategic Command, Ahmad Tukur, said, “I want to thank everyone who participated in this road walk. The fight against drug abuse and illicit trafficking is a collective responsibility. We should all carry this message to our families, friends and communities so that together we can build a safer and healthier society.

“This year’s theme, ‘The World Drug Problem: Persisting Issues, New Challenges, Innovative Responses,’ reminds us that while drug-related challenges continue to evolve, we must also adopt innovative approaches to tackle them.

“Beyond arrests, seizures and convictions, NDLEA remains committed to educating, sensitising and enlightening the public on the dangers associated with drug abuse,” Tukur said.

He reiterated that in addition to enforcing drug laws through arrests, seizures and prosecution of offenders, the agency is equally committed to public enlightenment and preventive measures aimed at reducing drug abuse in society.