By Ekunkonye Junior, Abuja
Margaret Mkpanam, representing African Women Initiative, expressed her organization’s support for a bill at the National Assembly, calling for establishing National Institute on Drug Awareness and Rehabilitation, emphasizing the importance of addressing drug abuse, particularly among youths and students.
“Our kids in school are suffering; the youths are going through a lot; the mothers are in pain,” she said, highlighting the need for a comprehensive approach to tackle the issue.
The Senate Committee on Drugs and Narcotics, led by Senator Ibrahim Hassan Dankwambo, recently organized a public hearing to deliberate on a Bill for an Act to Establish a National Institute on Drugs Awareness and Rehabilitation.
The Bill, sponsored by Senator Rufai Sani Hanga, aims to address the growing issue of drug abuse and addiction in Nigeria.
Speaking to journalists on behalf of the African Women Initiative shortly after the public hearing Mkpanam described the proposed National Institute on Drugs Awareness and Rehabilitation as a welcome development, aligning with President Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
She urged lawmakers to prioritize the Bill, citing the devastating impact of drug abuse on individuals, families, and society.
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) had raised concerns about the Bill, suggesting that it might duplicate existing duties.
However, Mkpanam argued that the proposed institute would complement the NDLEA’s efforts, rather than duplicating them. “I want to see it as another angle to assisting the NDLEA to even do better,” she said.
The Senate committee members appeared to be in favor of the Bill, with some nodding in agreement during the public hearing.
The proposed National Institute on Drugs Awareness and Rehabilitation aims to raise awareness, provide rehabilitation services, and support those affected by drug abuse.
