By Elizabeth Oyeniwa
Students of higher institutions from Irele Local Government Area of Ondo State have benefitted from a bursary award and sensitization programme on drug abuse, sponsored by the lawmaker representing Irele State Constituency in the Ondo State House of Assembly, Hon. Dr. Christopher Ogunlana.
The event, held in Irele, was well attended by political leaders, student union executives, youth corps members, and other dignitaries across the local government. The sensitization lecture was delivered by the Ondo State Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).
In his opening remarks, Hon. Dr. Ogunlana said the initiative was aimed at supporting students financially and sensitizing them on the dangers of drug abuse, which he described as one of the root causes of violence and insecurity in society.
“This programme is crucial, and I’m glad you’re all here to participate,As someone with many years of experience in the medical field, I have seen many cases of drug and substance abuse. No right-thinking person would engage in violent behaviour without being under the influence of drugs. That is why we must all fight this menace together.”
Hon. Ogunlana also used the occasion to highlight some of his achievements since assuming office, stressing that he has consistently reached out to his constituents in different ways to touch lives. He noted that empowerment programmes have remained central to his representation.
He explained that his interventions were not limited to financial empowerment alone but also extended to social support and community development efforts. According to him, he has made donations to hospitals in the area to strengthen health care delivery and ensure that the people of Irele have access to better medical services.
The lawmaker maintained that these efforts were part of his commitment to making his representation impactful and people-oriented. He described his style of leadership as one that listens to the yearnings of the people and responds promptly with practical solutions that improve their living conditions.
“ I will not relent in my commitment to serve you with honesty and dedication.This bursary and drug sensitization programme is just one of many steps, and by God’s grace, I will continue to do more for the benefit of every constituent,”he assured.
The lawmaker appreciated the Ondo State NDLEA Commander for partnering in the campaign against drug abuse, noting that education and awareness are more valuable than material gifts in addressing the challenge.
The Executive Chairman of Irele Local Government, Hon. Deacon Olajide Akinfe, described the programme as timely and in line with the empowerment strides of the lawmaker.
“This is the kind of initiative we have been expecting. Since his inception in office, Dr Ogunlana has been consistent in empowering his people—students, communities, and individuals alike. What we are witnessing today is a clear reflection of Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa’s EASE agenda and President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope agenda at the grassroots,” he said.
Also speaking, the All Progressives Congress (APC) Chairman of Irele Local Government, Mr. Zachariah Omoge, lauded the lawmaker for promoting education and development. He emphasised that the NDLEA lecture was highly relevant given the rising cases of insecurity linked to drug abuse.
“To our students, I urge you to remain good ambassadors of Irele wherever you find yourselves. Education is the best legacy, and Hon. Ogunlana has shown he values it greatly,” Omoge stated.
Delivering the sensitization lecture, Deputy Commander of the Drug Demand Reduction Unit, Ondo State NDLEA Command, DCN Yetunde Jeyifeus who represented the State Commander commended Hon. Ogunlana for the initiative.
She noted that drug abuse had become a global problem with devastating effects on individuals and communities. According to her, over 40 million Nigerians are battling drug addiction, with cases now spreading to primary school pupils.
“Drug abuse is the root of many crimes in our society. We have discovered plantations of illicit drugs, and cases of children being coerced into buying addictive substances. The age of addiction is decreasing, which is alarming,” she said.
The NDLEA officer listed commonly abused substances including glue, correction fluid, hallucinogens, anabolic steroids, and mixtures such as ‘monkey tail.’ She explained that the consequences of drug abuse range from mental health challenges to life-threatening diseases like HIV/AIDS.
“To avoid drug addiction, young people must develop positive coping skills, engage in sports, learn vocational skills, and participate in religious or social activities. Parents and communities also need to pay closer attention to early warning signs,” she advised.
On behalf of students, the President of the National Association of Irele Local Government Students, Opeyemi Poroye, expressed deep appreciation to the lawmaker for his continuous support.
“Today, through this bursary and lecture, he has once again proven his commitment to the growth of education and the well-being of youths in Irele,” Poroye said.
The event ended with the presentation of bursary awards to deserving students, who pledged to remain worthy ambassadors of Irele Local Government.
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