The Kwara State Chapter of the Association of Community Pharmacists of Nigeria (ACPN) has stated that it is prepared to collaborate with the Ilorin Emirate and other relevant parties in order to address the problem of drug abuse in the state.
Pharm. Mrs Munirat Bello, the Chairman of ACPN Kwara stated this on Wednesday in Ilorin during a courtesy visit to the Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji lbrahim Sulu-Gambari.
Available records from the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) shows that Kwara State leads the North Central states in drug and substance abuse, with 13 percent, followed by Nasarawa and Benue states with 11.8 and 11.6 percent, respectively.
Bello explained that the association will partner with the Ilorin Emirate in order to intensify efforts against the high rates of drug abuse in Kwara. She also called for proactive measures in curbing drug menace by soliciting support from the Emir and other stakeholders.
The Kwara ACPN Chairman said they will continue to collaborate with traditional institutions and other key stakeholders to enable sanity in the drug distribution system in the state.
“We all have our roles to play to ensure a sane society. The statistics show high prevalence of drug use. There is porosity in the system, where drug is concerned, that is leading to these high rates.
“There must be strict enforcement system. We intend to make a difference and close the gap because this situation is unacceptable and unsightly,” she stated.
In his response, the Emir of Ilorin, Alhaji Sulu-Gambari, commended the association for their efforts, while also assuring the pharmacists that the Emirate will give the necessary support to the association.
The highly revered monarch however advised the Kwara ACPN to partner the NDLEA to curb the menace of drug abuse in the state.
One of the programme's highlights was the donation of an ACPN-branded box of necessary medications to support the Grand Dubar, that will take place during the forthcoming Ileya Festival.
