Kaduna State Government says it has strengthened its partnership with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) to tackle drug abuse, mental health challenges and insecurity across the state and the wider North-West region.
This was disclosed by Governor Uba Sani on X after a courtesy visit by the UNODC Country Representative in Nigeria, Mr Cheikh Touré.
According to him: “I was honoured to receive the Country Representative of the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) in Nigeria, Mr Cheikh Touré, on a courtesy visit of mutual goodwill and constructive engagement.”
He said both sides discussed ways to improve joint responses to substance abuse, mental health issues and insecurity, especially in affected parts of Northern Nigeria.
“Our discussions were anchored on the imperative of strengthening collaborative responses to the intersecting challenges of substance abuse, mental health conditions, and insecurity, with particular attention to the North-West region and other affected parts of the country”.
Governor Sani also reaffirmed Kaduna State’s commitment to a health-focused approach that prioritises prevention, treatment, rehabilitation and reintegration of affected persons into society.
“I reaffirmed Kaduna State’s steadfast commitment to a public health–centred and evidence-based approach, one that prioritises prevention, treatment, rehabilitation, and social reintegration.”
He expressed appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for supporting reforms in peacebuilding, healthcare and community security, as well as commending the UNODC for its technical support and partnership.
UNODC representative Mr Touré praised Kaduna State for its leadership in drug prevention and treatment, describing it as a model for other states in Nigeria.
He highlighted the state’s mental health law, its implementation of the Alternatives to Incarceration (ATI) programme and the Child Amplified Protection System.
Eze Chidiebere Paul
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