July 12, (THEWILL) — A cleric, Most Rev. Friday Ibanga, has attributed the decline in youth restiveness, violent crime and vandalism in Akwa Ibom State to the people-oriented policies of Governor Umo Eno, saying the administration’s approach has helped improve security and social stability.
Ibanga, the founder of Everlasting Christ Gospel Mission International (ECGMI), made the remarks in Uyo while receiving officials of the Community Anti-Drug Advocacy Initiative (CADAI), who paid him a courtesy visit and presented him with an award in recognition of his support for the organisation’s anti-drug advocacy and humanitarian activities.
He said the governor’s programmes had contributed to a reduction in youth-related criminal activities across the state and urged residents to continue supporting the administration.
The cleric, however, warned that drug abuse remains a major threat to Nigeria’s young population, citing figures indicating that millions of youths are affected by illicit drug use. He urged young people to shun substance abuse, describing it as a destructive habit that undermines personal development and societal progress.
According to him, the global campaign against drug abuse requires stronger collaboration among governments, faith-based organisations and community groups to protect young people from addiction and crime.
Earlier, CADAI Commandant, Ephraim Obot, said the organisation works with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) to combat drug abuse through advocacy in schools, motor parks, communities and other public spaces.
Obot expressed concern over the increasing availability of illicit drugs, including among school-age children, and said the group had rescued several victims of drug addiction through its intervention programmes.
He appealed for financial and material support to enable the organisation to expand its advocacy campaigns and rehabilitation efforts.
Also speaking, philanthropist Dr Paul Dowells pledged support for CADAI’s programmes and promised to facilitate partnerships with the University of Uyo, the Akwa Ibom State Ministry of Education and other institutions to strengthen anti-drug awareness campaigns.
During the event, CADAI presented Ibanga with an Outstanding Spiritual Leadership Award in recognition of his contributions to humanitarian service and support for the organisation.
Responding, the cleric pledged continued backing for the initiative, including the sponsorship of 10 CADAI cadets to study Social Work at the university level to enhance their capacity for community service.
The visit also featured the hoisting of the CADAI flag at the headquarters of Everlasting Christ Gospel Mission International in Uyo.
