The Lagos State Government has announced plans to partner with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) to curb the sale and use of hard drugs within government-owned housing estates across the state.
The collaboration was disclosed by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Housing, Mr. Abdulhafis Toriola, in a statement issued on Thursday by the Deputy Director of Public Affairs, Mr. Ganiu Lawal.
Toriola made the announcement while receiving a delegation from the NDLEA, led by the Lagos State Commander, Mr. Abubakar Liman Wali, during a courtesy visit to his office in Ikeja.
He commended the NDLEA for its tireless efforts in combating drug trafficking and abuse nationwide, as well as for its continuous public enlightenment and rehabilitation programmes aimed at helping victims of addiction.
According to him, the Ministry is fully committed to supporting the NDLEA’s campaign to rid Lagos housing estates of drug-related activities, stressing that Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu’s administration is determined to build safer and healthier communities through inter-agency cooperation.
“The Lagos State Government will continue to partner with relevant agencies to promote a drug-free society. We are determined to ensure our housing estates are not used as breeding grounds for criminality or drug abuse,” Toriola said.
In his remarks, NDLEA Commander Abubakar Liman Wali commended the Ministry for its readiness to work with the agency, noting that the NDLEA would continue to promote discipline, patriotism, and community participation in the fight against drug abuse.
He reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to strengthening preventive measures, increasing public awareness, and ensuring that offenders are prosecuted in accordance with the law.