Amotekun, NDLEA join forces to tackle drug abuse in Oyo

The Oyo State Security Network Agency, better known as Amotekun Corps, has struck a partnership with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency aimed at curbing drug abuse and the security problems that often come with it across communities in the state. The renewed collaboration was sealed at a one day sensitisation programme organised by the NDLEA specifically for Amotekun operatives. The session covered several areas, including how to prevent drug abuse, identify substance related risks, adopt healthy coping strategies, maintain responsible conduct, and apply community based methods to help build drug free neighbourhoods. Disclosing this in a statement made available to journalists in Ibadan, the Oyo State Commissioner for Information, Dotun Oyelade, explained that the partnership was designed to equip Amotekun personnel with practical knowledge that would help them respond better to drug related threats within their areas of coverage. Speaking at the event, the Amotekun Corps Commandant in the state, Col. Olayinka Olayanju (retd.), who was represented by the Director of Finance and Accounts, Adigun Yetunde, commended the NDLEA for organising the training and for deepening cooperation between both agencies. The commandant stressed that ongoing training and capacity building remain vital for Amotekun personnel, particularly on issues that have a direct bearing on the safety of communities. He noted that a clearer understanding of substance abuse would help officers spot emerging risks early, respond more appropriately, and contribute meaningfully to drug prevention efforts in their respective areas. Olayanju also charged the personnel to put what they learnt from the programme into practice in their day to day duties, urging them to prioritise careful observation, proper information gathering, and closer collaboration with other relevant security agencies. He added that a professional and community driven approach would help build public trust and strengthen the collective push toward safer, drug free communities. Also speaking at the programme, the Staff Officer in charge of Drug Integrity Tests at the NDLEA's Oyo State Command, Superintendent of Narcotics O. A. Achichi, appreciated the management of Amotekun for supporting the initiative and giving it the platform to reach frontline operatives. The partnership adds to a growing list of collaborations the NDLEA has forged with security outfits, government agencies and community stakeholders across the country as part of its broader campaign against drug trafficking and substance abuse.