ECOWAS Donates N200m Anti-Drug Equipment to Adamawa

The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has donated anti-drug equipment valued at N200 million to the Adamawa State Specialist Hospital in Yola and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA). This handover occurred during a high-level advocacy event aimed at addressing the increasing number of drug addicts in the state.

Dr. Daniel Amakwa, head of ECOWAS's drug control division, emphasized that this donation is part of a broader regional effort to help member countries combat drug abuse and improve victim reintegration.

He raised concerns about the high prevalence of drug use among youth in Adamawa and across Africa. Chief Felix Tangwami, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Health, noted that the equipment will significantly impact treatment centers.

Aliyu Abubakar of the NDLEA highlighted the donation's timely nature, while Dr. Wadinga Dauda warned about the negative impacts of drug abuse on younger generations.

Dr. Stephen John revealed that 60% of secondary school students are not educated about drug risks.