The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Rivers State has seized a shipment of codeine-laced cough syrup valued at approximately ₦4 billion over the past two weeks.

Stella Ngwoke, Commander of the NDLEA at Onne Port, announced the seizure during an event on Wednesday commemorating the 2024 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking. She emphasized that the significant demand and supply of such substances in the state necessitates the support of relevant stakeholders to combat the abuse of cough syrup containing codeine as a psychoactive substance.

Ngwoke highlighted that the misuse of these substances is prevalent among youths aged 15 to 24.

In a related development, the Federal Government pledged to mobilize funds to support the NDLEA’s fight against drug abuse and trafficking. Senator George Akume, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, represented President Bola Tinubu at the banquet hall in Abuja to mark the event. He assured the government’s commitment to assisting the agency in reducing drug abuse and trafficking statistics by mobilizing necessary funds.

President Tinubu stated, “I urge everyone to support the War Against Drug Abuse initiative, known as the WADA campaign, launched by the NDLEA three years ago. We must redouble our efforts to combat drug abuse and trafficking in the country. This administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda places youth at the center of its focus, ensuring their protection from anything that could derail their future or destroy their potential.”

The President also called for prioritizing evidence-based prevention strategies for drugs in the country, stating, “Prevention is the most potent weapon to deploy in the face of such a formidable challenge. It not only saves lives but also conserves resources that would otherwise be spent on treatment and rehabilitation. Our country must prioritize evidence-based prevention strategies, allocate adequate resources, and foster partnerships for greater impact.”