NGO, MINISTRY PARTNER TO FIGHT DRUG ABUSE

The Rivers State Ministry for Social Welfare and Rehabilitation has
formed plans with a Port Harcourt-based Non-Governmental
Organisation, Advocacy on Drugs and Substance Abuse (CARDS) to check
drug abuse and other malaise in the state.

Speaking when she paid a courtesy visit to the Commissioner for
Social Welfare and Rehabilitation, Mrs Ine Aguma Barrister Chibuzor
stated that CARDS is partering with the ministry to fight against
drug abuse because of the strategic position the ministry occupies
and its role in rehabilitating victims of drug abuse.

According to her, studies carried out by researchers have revealed
that there is a relationship between homelessness, destitution and
substance abuse, especially in metropolitan cities. Adding that
abuse of drugs such as marijuana, alcohol, crack, cocaine
and heroine inhibits the users ability to think coherently.

Rejecting the view that drug abuse is the problem of poor minorities
or big city residents, Chibuzor stressed that drug abuse cuts across
all walk of life and disclosed that the number of people who have
become homeless and jobless due to drug use have increased.

In her remarks, the Commissioner for Social Welfare and
Rehabilitation, Mrs Inime Aguma assured that the ministry would
partner with them in ensuring a drug-free society.

She stated that no sane would resort to violence without the
influence of hard drugs and other related substances.

The Commissioner also tasked the NGO to find a lasting solution to
drug abuse in the state and expressed worry over the percentage of
youths who are already victims.