Abia State governor Alex Otti, on Wednesday, urged youths of the state to shun hard drugs and bad influences to secure their future and contribute meaningfully to the development of society.

The Governor stated this in Umuahia, during the commemoration of the 2024 United Nations Day Against Illicit Trafficking and Drug Abuse, organised by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency.

The Governor explained that knowing and understanding the effects and consequences of drug use will go a long way to help youths make informed decisions and seek necessary help when needed.

Dr Caleb Ajagba, the Chief of Staff who represented the Governor, explained that education plays a very significant and vital role in empowering people with the information they need to resist substance abuse.

He stressed that the journey of life should be approached with the right intention to excel as it emphasizes the need for youths aspiring to succeed to set goals and stay focused on attaining them.

Also speaking, the wife of the governor, Mrs Priscilla Otti, represented by the wife of the Deputy Governor, Mrs Adaeze Emetu, said that prevention is the most effective way of tackling the challenge of drug abuse.

The governor’s wife added that the war against drug abuse and illicit trafficking could be won by applying initiatives that would cut off illicit drug supply channels. She praised the NDLEA for its commitment to the fight against illicit drug trafficking and consumption.

“You have led the fight with great courage, admirable professionalism and a genuine sense of service to the community, ”she said.