By Joy Onu 
The Alaafin of Oyo, Oba Abimbola Owoade, has pledged the support of traditional institutions for the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in its renewed campaign against substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking across the country.
According to a statement issued on Friday by Femi Babafemi, Director of Media and Advocacy of the agency, the assurance was given during a courtesy visit by the monarch to the NDLEA national headquarters in Abuja.
Oba Owoade, who was accompanied by the Oloro of Oro, Oba Joel Olaniyan Olatoye, and the Olusin of Ijara Isin, Oba Ademola Julius Ajibola, said traditional rulers are well positioned to support anti-drug efforts because of their closeness to grassroots communities.
The Alaafin praised the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of NDLEA, Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (rtd), describing his appointment as a product of dedication, integrity and consistent public service. He said Marwa’s record as a former military governor and administrator had earned him respect across Yoruba land and beyond.
Responding to Marwa’s call for greater involvement of traditional rulers in the anti-drug campaign, the monarch assured that he would mobilise fellow royal fathers to work closely with the agency. He noted that traditional institutions have access to local intelligence and can play a key role in prevention, advocacy and community engagement.
“We are at the grassroots and close to the people. We understand what is happening within our communities and we are ready to collaborate and offer all necessary support to ensure success in this national assignment,” the Alaafin said.
In his remarks, Marwa congratulated the Alaafin on his ascension to the throne and stressed the urgency of tackling drug abuse, which he described as a major threat to public health and national security. He cited findings from a national drug use survey indicating that millions of Nigerians within the working-age population engage in drug use.
The NDLEA boss said the agency had been mandated by President Bola Tinubu to intensify enforcement, prosecute offenders and dismantle drug trafficking networks, adding that the task could not be achieved without the support of traditional and religious leaders.
According to Marwa, traditional rulers command respect within their domains and can influence behaviour change when they speak out against drug abuse. He also urged monarchs to work with religious leaders to strengthen advocacy in churches, mosques and local communities.
Marwa further appealed for intelligence sharing, noting that drug abuse fuels crimes such as kidnapping, terrorism and banditry. He said collaboration at the community level would help protect youths and families from the devastating effects of illicit drugs.
He thanked the Alaafin and his delegation for the visit and wished the monarch a peaceful and prosperous reign marked by development across Oyo Kingdom
