The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) said it had intensified sensitisation programmes at motor parks and strengthened collaboration with NURTW, particularly in sharing of information.
Kabir Tsakuwa, Commander of Narcotics, (CN) NDLEA, FCT Command, said this to the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Tuesday in Abuja.
Tsakuwa said that the support of transport union members at one of the motor parks recently, led to an interception of large consignment of tramadol and other drugs.
He, however, said that suspects in connection to the siezed drugs were arrested, adding that they had already been charged to court.
According to him, NDLEA maintains sustainable raid operations not only at motor parks and road sides, but all the identified black spots within FCT and its environments where drug activities are noticed.
“The Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) and suburbs particularly, are as well raided at all times to dislodge all criminals who may want to take advantage of the locations.
“The record of arrest and seizures this year so far is a clear indication of the work being done day and night within the FCT and its environs, ” he said.
Tsakuwa said that the NDLEA had created operational outpost in some motor parks and other places like Apo, Wuse Zone 4, Area 1 Park, Torabora, Banex, Gwarimpa, Jabi, and Karu Abattoir.
He said that the places were some of the areas where drug activities were relatively high within the FCT.
“Effort is ongoing to create more outpost as directed by the NDLEA Chairman, retired Brig.-Gen. Buba Marwa, ” he said.
The NDLEA boss said that the command had created special squads that worked round the clock to deal with actionable intelligence in real time.
This, he said, would be with a view to curbing illicit drug activities through dislodgement of notorious drug joints and offenders.
According to him, as a command, NDLEA also leverage on the existing relationship with the communities to assist with reasonable information within their territory and locality.
“Additionally, the command collaborates with all security agencies in the FCT, where we share information and security concerns among the heads.
” We carry out joint operations with membership drawn from Nigeria Police Force (NPF), the Military, NAF, Navy, DSS, NIS and NSCDC.
“The team is formed at the instance of Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) where criminal hide outs are continuously dislodged, ” he said.
The Akwa Ibom State commissioner for women Affairs and social welfare, Dr INI ADIAKPAN has stated that the girl child is very important in the society, describing her as the mother of the future.
She made this statement during her presentation as the special guest of honour in an event organized by AIDS Healthcare Foundation (AHF).
ADIAKPAN commended AHF for implementing and supporting the projects, noting that the sensitization programme has underscored the value of the girl child in the society.
She urged the children to take advantage of the opportunity to learn skills and be motivated to become better citizens of the society in spite of the challenges they face.
The two-day programme which highlighted the theme; Amplify Her Voice” was organised for students of The Model Secondary School, Aka Offot, Uyo to commemorate the International Day of the girl child.
On his part, the AHF Advocacy and Marketing Manager, Mr STEVE ABORISHADE said as part of efforts to sustain the development and follow-up the outcome, a sanitary club as well as a sanitary pad bank will be provided for every girl in the school to maintain effective menstrual hygiene.
The commissioner for Information and strategy, Comrade INI EMEMOBONG who was represented by a Director in the ministry, Mrs. EUNICE EGHAREVBA charged the girls to prioritize capacity building, adding that a girl is worthy to be heard when she has something to say.
Highlight of the programme was the distribution of packs of sanitary towels to all the girl students who were participants at the programme.
International Day of the Girl Child: Investing in Girls’ Rights for Leadership and Well-being
As a father, I am passionate about investing in not just my daughter’s but every other girls’ rights. I believe that girls are integral parts of the future, and that when we invest in them, we invest in a better world for all.
This year’s theme for International Day of the Girl Child is “Invest in Girls’ Rights: Our Leadership, Our Well-being.” This theme is particularly important in today’s world, where girls face many challenges, including discrimination, violence, wrong social engineering and poverty.
Despite these challenges, girls are resilient and resourceful, it is in their DNA I believe. They are leaders, innovators, and changemakers. When girls have the opportunity to reach their full potential, they can create a more just and equitable world for all.
Supporting Girls’ Education
Education is the key to unlocking girls’ potential. When girls are educated, they are more likely to be employed, earn a good income, and live healthier lives. Education equips girls with the knowledge and skills they need to pursue their dreams, contribute to society, and break the cycle of poverty. It empowers them to make informed decisions about their lives, health, and future. As the Nobel laureate Malala Yousafzai once said, “One child, one teacher, one book, and one pen can change the world.” By investing in girls’ education, we invest in a brighter, more prosperous future for all.
Protecting Girls from Violence
Girls are disproportionately affected by violence, both at home and in public. This issue is a grave concern that demands our attention and action. Creating safe spaces for girls and ensuring they have access to justice is vital. No girl should live in fear, and every girl should have the right to grow up in a world where her safety is a top priority. As Michelle Obama aptly put it, “No country can ever truly flourish if it stifles the potential of its women and deprives itself of the contributions of half of its citizens.” By protecting girls from violence, we not only ensure their well-being but also build a society where respect and dignity are extended to all, regardless of gender.
Empowering Girls to Lead
Girls need to see themselves reflected in leadership positions. We must create opportunities for girls to develop their leadership skills and be heard and valued. When we empower girls to lead, we foster a culture of inclusivity and diversity. Girls are natural leaders, and their perspectives, ideas, and experiences can drive positive change. As former U.S. Secretary of State Madeleine Albright noted, “There is a special place in hell for women who don’t help other women.” By encouraging girls to take on leadership roles, we enable them to influence policies, advocate for their rights, and inspire others to follow in their footsteps.
From a Father’s Perspective
As a father, I am especially motivated to invest in girls’ rights because I want my daughter to have the same opportunities as any boy. I want her to grow up in a world where she is respected and valued for who she is, and where she can achieve her full potential. My commitment to this cause is unwavering because I know that investing in girls’ rights is not only the right thing to do but also the smart thing to do.
When girls are educated and empowered, they are more likely to contribute to their families, communities, and economies. They become architects of their own destinies and agents of change. Girls can shape the world in remarkable ways, and it’s our responsibility to provide them with the support and resources they need to succeed.
On this International Day of the Girl Child, I encourage everyone to join me in investing in girls’ rights. Let’s create a better world for all, starting with our girls. Let’s celebrate their potential, protect their rights, and empower them to lead us towards a brighter future. Together, we can build a world where every girl has the opportunity to thrive and reach her full potential.
This Piece was written by Adebayo A. Samuel @bayodaish (Twitter, Instagram and Facebook)
One key question that often arises is, “Does exercise help with aging?” To what extent does regular exercise contribute to a smoother aging process, particularly concerning joint health?
My late grandmother, at over 80 years old, effortlessly walked a considerable distance to and from the market and as a teenager I could not. This contrast raises an intriguing question: What practices were she and her generation following that seems to elude many young people today? As we observe the growing number of individuals who can barely walk short distances from their homes, offices, or places of business, it’s undoubtedly disheartening. This prompts us to consider whether such a sedentary lifestyle has repercussions as we age and if it adversely impacts our health. If indeed there are implications, what can individuals do to improve their situation, and when should they commence preparations to support their bodies in their later years?
In a recent episode of “Sharing Live Issues,” we engaged in a discussion with Dr. Dan Abia, a fitness enthusiast and medical doctor. Our aim was to explore how one can gracefully navigate the journey of aging and debunk the myth that “aging starts from your legs.”
Dr. Dan pointed out that urbanization has inadvertently shortened our lifespans. In this generation, we live in skyscrapers and drive cars, often forsaking simple activities like walking. This sedentary lifestyle takes a toll on our bodies over time.
One age-related condition that frequently plagues older individuals is arthritis, specifically osteoarthritis. This condition can be attributed to the wear and tear of the body, genetic predisposition, past occupations, or excessive body weight. However, some individuals age without experiencing arthritis. What sets them apart? According to Dr. Dan, they are not genetically predisposed, maintain a healthy BMI, and did not engage in physically demanding jobs in their youth.
So, is it accurate to say that “aging starts from the legs”? Dr. Dan suggests that this notion likely refers to arthritis because the legs bear the body’s weight throughout life. Consequently, wear and tear on the weight-bearing joints become more apparent in old age.
Preventing the onset of arthritis and aging gracefully requires proactive measures that should begin early in life. Diet plays a pivotal role, as “you are what you eat,” and its effects manifest in old age. A balanced diet rich in fresh foods, as opposed to refined ones, is essential. Equally vital is exercise. Leading a sedentary lifestyle is a significant risk factor for arthritis. To age gracefully, one must start now, making lifestyle changes that include regular exercise and a balanced diet.
For those contemplating exercise in their later years, a visit to the doctor for an evaluation is advisable before beginning any new fitness regimen. Exercise can be incorporated into daily life without the need for a gym. Creating a routine, selecting suitable exercises, and maintaining consistency are key. A balanced diet and exercise not only promote graceful aging but also contribute to overall well-being.
In conclusion, the preparation for aging begins now; the journey of aging can be a smoother one with the right preparations. Exercise and a balanced diet are powerful allies in this endeavor. Start now to reap the rewards of aging gracefully, as your future self will thank you for the care and attention you invest today.
Written by Maris ‘Damaris’ Iloka
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