Oyo Rep, Oseni Unveils Holistic Approach To Combat Drug Abuse

 

Engr. Aderemi Oseni, lawmaker representing Ibarapa East/Ido Federal Constituency of Oyo state, has unveiled innovative strategies to combat youth drug abuse in the area.

His transformative agenda, known as the 3Es, focuses on Youth Education, Engagement, and Empowerment.

Recognising the alarming rates of drug abuse among Nigerian youth, Oseni, Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Federal Road Maintenance Agency (FERMA), embarked on a dedicated journey marked by visionary leadership.

The 3Es agenda, which targets the root causes of substance abuse, was elucidated by the lawmaker during the Special Edition of Bayo Faleke Annual Public Lecture On Radio. According to the APC chieftain, his motivation stems from firsthand experiences during the electioneering campaign, where he witnessed the pervasive influence of drug abuse on vulnerable youth.

During interactions with youth in his constituency, Oseni said he encountered resistance to all forms of assistance, leading him to adopt a multifaceted approach to address the issue effectively.

“During my campaigns, I encountered many youths who were overwhelmed by drug abuse. I held a session with them in the Ijokodo area of my constituency. We had a discussion lasting almost 2 to 3 hours, during which I specifically expressed my intention to empower them, provide financial support, assist with their education and careers, and help in any way possible.

“I was deeply troubled when some of them expressed disinterest in these opportunities, insisting that all they wanted was money. They conveyed that they were content with their current situation. This revelation saddened me deeply.

“I also visited the second local government area within my constituency and encountered a similar situation. The sheer number of youths following me made me realise the magnitude of the challenge I faced in addressing youth issues comprehensively. This realisation prompted me to focus on what I call the 3Es,” he remarked.

Under Youth Education, Oseni initiated programmes to alleviate financial burdens on students and ensure equal access to educational opportunities by covering the costs of WAEC and JAMB examinations among others.

The lawmaker’s Youth Engagement efforts prioritized sustainable employment opportunities over short-term solutions like providing motorcycles. Through the appointment of over 60 Special Assistants, Oseni aimed to foster a sense of purpose and belonging within the community.

Youth Empowerment was central to Oseni’s strategy, with a substantial N100 million grant allocated to support youth businesses and deter criminal activities and drug abuse.

He stressed the importance of advocating for the removal of affected youths from the streets, emphasising the role of prayer alongside government efforts to curb drug abuse.

“I identify with some of them and to the glory of God, I have plucked them from the streets, and their lives have improved. As a legislator, alongside the ongoing efforts by the federal government to curb drug abuse among our youth, including the strengthening of NDLEA and other law enforcement agencies, advocating for the removal of these affected youths from the streets is crucial. Additionally, prayer plays a vital role in all situations, and we must continue to pray for them,” the lawmaker added.