The National Orientation Agency (NOA), in collaboration with the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Ahmed Tajudeen, has taken its campaign against drug abuse and domestic violence to Katsina State, mobilising traditional rulers, religious leaders and community members to confront the twin social challenges.
The three-day sensitisation campaign, was designed to raise public awareness, encourage community participation and promote collective action towards preventing drug abuse and domestic violence.
The NOA Director-General, represented by Dr. David Akoji, led the delegation. Other members included Madam Acharu Opaluwa, Director of the Abuse, Rights and Narcotics Department, alongside officials from the Agency’s National Headquarters and the Katsina State Directorate.
According to a statement by Bala Musa, Director, Communication and Media of the Agency,
the campaign opened with advocacy visits to the Emir of Katsina, the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Katsina State Chapter, and JIBWIS, Katsina. The engagements provided opportunities to seek the support of traditional and religious institutions in strengthening public awareness and community-driven responses to drug abuse and domestic violence.
The delegation visited the Emir of Daura, followed by a town hall meeting in the community, where stakeholders and residents were engaged on the need to address the social and family consequences of the two challenges.
The campaign reached its climax with a road walk through Katsina metropolis and another town hall meeting in Katsina, further extending the Agency’s message to residents and other stakeholders.
Through the series of engagements, NOA emphasised the importance of collective responsibility in tackling drug abuse and domestic violence, calling on traditional rulers, religious institutions, community leaders and citizens to play active roles in promoting responsible behaviour, protecting vulnerable persons and fostering safer communities.
The Agency reaffirmed its commitment to promoting positive social values, safeguarding the dignity and rights of citizens, and building a society free from the devastating consequences of drug abuse and domestic violence.
Together, we can build safer families, stronger communities and a healthier society.
By: Sam Erhunmwunsee, Radio Nigeria Asaba
