Abia local council beef up war against drug abuse, insecurity, scales up youth empowerment programs
Abia local council beef up
war against drug abuse, insecurity, scales up youth empowerment programs
Ogbonnaya Ikokwu, Umuahia
The Chairman Umuahia South Local Government Area, Engr. Philip Chinedu Enwereuzo, has said his administration has intensified collaboration with security agencies to fight drug abuse and insecurity in the area.
He revealed that the local council has launched new youth empowerment programs to sustain peace and reduce crime in the council area.
Enwereuzo disclosed this on Monday while journalists in his office in Apumiri Ubakala.
The Council boss acknowledged that insecurity remains a national challenge, but maintained that Umuahia South and Abia State at large are “relatively peaceful” compared to other parts of the country.
He said, “Security is a challenge across the country. It is not peculiar to Abia State or Umuahia South alone,” he said. “However, we cannot afford to be complacent. We must continue to take the necessary steps to ensure total safety and security for our people.”
He disclosed that the local government is working closely with Operation Crush, the military, the Department of State Services (DSS), and the Nigeria Police Force in its efforts to protect lives and prosperity.
He added that the council has also established the Umuahia South Vigilante Group to support security operations and respond quickly to intelligence reports.
“Anywhere we receive information about a threat, we act immediately to nip it in the bud,” the Chairman stated.
He cited a recent kidnapping incident in parts of the LGA, noting that swift intervention by the vigilante group in collaboration with state and federal security agencies led to arrests.
He said, The suspects, have been handed over to the police for interrogation and prosecution.
“Those arrested will be charged to court and the law will take its full course. This should serve as a deterrent to anyone considering criminal activity in this zone,” he added.
The Chairman also reaffirmed the Council’s stance against drug abuse and trafficking, describing it as a threat to young people.
He revealed that a notorious drug spot in Umuahia South was recently demolished by government operatives.
“Hard drugs have ruined many vibrant lives, and the government frowns on it. “Drug cartels may be strong, but the government is stronger. We are monitoring them closely, and Umuahia South will not be a safe haven for their operations.” , he said
He added that the Council is partnering with the NDLEA and community stakeholders to run sensitization campaigns in schools and on radio to educate residents on the dangers of drug abuse.
He revealed that the council has rolled out several empowerment initiatives to address unemployment and idleness among youths in the area.
“Over 50 young people are currently enrolled in the TechRise program, which trains participants in ICT, artificial intelligence, and other digital skills. The third cohort began last week”, he stated.
The Chairman also announced plans to establish a Skill Acquisition Center in Olokoro community where residents will receive training in trades ranging from ICT to bricklaying.
“We want our people to be self-reliant. The government cannot do everything, but we can provide the platform and training for people to improve their skills and livelihoods.” he added.
On agriculture, he said the council is running a demonstration farms for cocoa, cassava, and habanero pepper in Amakama, Nsirimo and the council premises to educate farmers on modern techniques and profitable crops.
He pointed out that a poultry farm has also been set up at the Council headquarters.
He further commended the Abia State government for providing free education for primary and junior secondary school students, describing it as a “magnificent” investment in the future.
The Chairman said additional measures to strengthen the local security architecture are under consideration and being reviewed with the state government.