The fight against drug menace in Kogi: Hon. Eunice Achimugu’s impact
By Jibrin Isah
Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo’s focus on a technocratic approach to leadership and governance led to the appointment of Hon. Eunice Achimugu as Special Adviser on the War Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking in Kogi State. In the past, Kogi had been a “laboratory” for the study of drug abuse and human trafficking. However, under Hon. Achimugu’s leadership, the incidence of these issues has been significantly reduced.
Her approach is rooted in the belief that the most effective way to address drug abuse and human trafficking is through the criminal justice system. By upholding Nigeria’s legal system, she has ensured that those engaged in these illicit activities are brought to justice.
Hon. Achimugu’s strategy against drug abuse and illicit trafficking is not limited to law enforcement. She also emphasizes multi-stakeholder cooperation, bringing together individuals, civil society organizations, and various government agencies. This multi-sectoral approach addresses the complex nature of drug abuse and its effects on both users and traffickers.
Key to her success has been building inter-agency cooperation and implementing targeted capacity-building programs for at-risk and idle youth. Through constant training, education, and sensitization campaigns, she works to enlighten the public on the negative effects of drug abuse, aligning with the Governor’s agenda of transformation and rehabilitation.
Hon. Achimugu has a profound understanding that poverty often triggers drug abuse. She recognizes poverty as a multi-dimensional issue that requires different policies and interventions tailored to its varying causes and impacts. Her mentorship programs have contributed to a drastic reduction in drug abuse by redirecting youth toward productive ventures and healthy lifestyles.
The campaign also includes door-to-door efforts to counsel against drug abuse and trafficking, addressing one of the core problems: poor parenting.
Drug abuse poses a significant threat to economic progress, leading to social vices, strained international relations, loss of lives, and misallocated government spending. Hon. Eunice Achimugu has been a beacon in this fight, tackling a menace often fueled by bad company, peer pressure, and a lack of parental guidance.
It is clear that the Special Adviser on Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking has been at the forefront of curbing this menace in Kogi State.
Isah, a businessman and public affairs analyst, writes from Abuja.
