Lagos State Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mobolaji Ogunlende, has declared drug abuse a pandemic in the state, requiring urgent collective action. Speaking at the “Empowering Her Fortune Initiative (EHF) 2.0″ event, organized by the Ikoyi-Obalende Local Council Development Area (LCDA) in collaboration with MTN Momo, Ogunlende emphasized the dire consequences of substance abuse on youth, including health risks and fatal road accidents.
Ogunlende urged all relevant stakeholders, including private organizations and community members, to join forces in combating drug abuse to safeguard the lives and futures of young people. Highlighting the state’s efforts, he referenced the “Lagos Kicks Against Drug Abuse” awareness campaign as a crucial initiative in this fight.
The commissioner praised Lagos youths for their behavior during the #EndBadGovernance protests and encouraged them to utilize empowerment opportunities provided by the state, such as the “Students Loan” scheme. He also commended the Ikoyi-Obalende LCDA Chairman, Fuad Atanda-Lawal, for prioritizing women’s empowerment and stressed the importance of not overlooking youth empowerment given their significant population and challenges.
The empowerment event saw 1000 women receiving ₦50,000 each, with notable attendees including lawmakers, traditional chiefs, and APC leaders. Ogunlende’s call to action highlights the critical need for a united approach to address the pervasive issue of drug abuse in Lagos State.