The Ooni of Ife, Arole Oduduwa, Ooni Adeyeye Enitan Ogunwusi, CFR, Ojaja II, has reiterated his unwavering support for the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in its ongoing campaign against drug abuse and illicit trafficking across Nigeria.
The assurance came on Wednesday when the Osun State Commander of the agency, Mr. Olayinka Joe Fadile, led a delegation of senior officers on a courtesy visit to the revered monarch at the historic Ile Oodua Palace in Ile-Ife.
The visit, according to palace sources, was aimed at strengthening the relationship between the traditional institution and the anti-drug agency while also seeking the monarch’s continued support in mobilizing communities in the fight against substance abuse.
Speaking during the engagement, the NDLEA State Commander acknowledged the Ooni’s longstanding role in promoting the agency’s advocacy initiatives, noting that the monarch had previously been honoured as one of the agency’s decorated ambassadors.
Mr. Fadile explained that although the ambassadorial recognition was a one-time honour, the NDLEA continues to hold the Ooni in high regard for his influence and moral leadership in championing responsible behaviour within society. He described the visit as an opportunity to formally pay homage to the royal father while also seeking his royal blessings as the agency intensifies its operations and awareness campaigns across the state.
He further noted that the NDLEA greatly values the role of traditional institutions in shaping public attitudes and guiding young people away from harmful social vices, particularly the growing challenge of drug abuse among youths.
Responding, the Ooni of Ife commended the NDLEA Commander and his officers for their dedication and sacrifice in protecting society from the devastating consequences of illicit drug use and trafficking.
The monarch stressed that tackling drug abuse requires sustained collaboration between security agencies, traditional rulers, community leaders and families. He emphasized that the fight against substance abuse must involve strong community engagement, moral guidance and firm enforcement of the law.
Ooni Ogunwusi assured the visiting officers that traditional rulers within his domain remain committed to supporting initiatives that safeguard the wellbeing of young people and promote discipline within society.
The revered monarch also offered prayers for the NDLEA Commander and his officers, seeking divine protection, wisdom and success in their duties while praying for continued peace, stability and progress across Osun State and Nigeria as a whole.
The visit further highlights the growing partnership between traditional institutions and security agencies in addressing social challenges, with the Ooni of Ife continuing to play a significant role in advocating for community development, youth empowerment and societal wellbeing.
