The Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa (rtd), has called on Nigerian youths to embrace skills acquisition and empowerment programmes as a means of avoiding substance abuse and other social vices.
Marwa made the call while speaking as the Special Guest of Honour at the launch of a youth empowerment and skills acquisition programme organized by Grassroots Bridge Builders, a non-governmental organization, in Abuja on Thursday.
He described the initiative as being in line with the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Tinubu’s administration, which prioritizes youth empowerment, job creation, social inclusion, and skills development.
According to him, training and empowering 10,000 young Nigerians through practical skills is a significant contribution to national development. “This is not just an NGO activity; it is direct support to government efforts aimed at reducing unemployment, poverty, drug abuse, and crime,” Marwa said.
He added that the programme goes beyond charity, described it as a form of capacity building, character development, and protection against drug abuse and its negative consequences on society.
Marwa emphasized that the fight against drug abuse is a collective responsibility, noting that government alone cannot solve all social problems. He called on non-governmental organizations, civil society groups, faith-based institutions, community leaders, and the private sector to support similar initiatives.
He also urged stakeholders to collaborate with the NDLEA in designing and implementing programmes that give young people skills, dignity, and a sense of purpose, stressing that community-based prevention strategies are more effective when government and other actors work together.
Addressing the youths at the event, Marwa said they should see themselves as part of the solution to Nigeria’s challenges. “You are not a problem to be managed; you are a solution to be empowered. Your talents and creativity are needed to build a stronger and safer Nigeria,” he stated.
He encouraged them to take advantage of available opportunities, stay away from drugs, and invest in their personal development and the future of the country.
While congratulating Grassroots Bridge Builders for its efforts, Marwa assured the organization of NDLEA’s support for genuine and non-partisan initiatives that promote youth development, skills acquisition, and drug-free communities.
The programme is aimed at equipping young Nigerians with practical skills and entrepreneurial knowledge to enhance self-reliance and reduce social vices across the country.
