Major General Ajunwa urges troops and their families to abstain from substance abuse

The General Officer Commanding (GOC) 81 Division Nigerian Army Major General OC Ajunwa has urged soldiers and their family members to totally abstain from the abuse of drugs, describing it as “an ugly trend capable of destroying their lives.”

The GOC represented by Commander Division Equipment Support, Colonel Emmanuel Omoba, while giving his remarks at the sensitization lecture said the event was designed to create awareness on the increasing incidences of drug abuse amongst soldiers and most especially their family members as well as its effects within barracks community.

Gen Ajunwa emphasized that abuse of drugs amongst military personnel and their family members has eaten very deep which if not urgently addressed headlong, could lead to a serious catastrophe. He advised the participants to be careful in making decisions as such could make or mar their future.

He further encouraged parents to put in more effort in their parental responsibilities, ensuring a good upbringing for their children by keeping close watch on them, saying, it takes a collective approach to curbing this ugly trend.

Delivering a lecture at the seminar, Dr Odigie-Akpataka pointed out that depression, despair, the feeling of hopelessness, and other stress-inducing factors are not enough reasons to indulge in drug abuse which according to her exposes victims to mental and health risks. “If any of you is struggling with something, go to the MRS and seek help and learn to cut your coat according to your cloth.” She advised.

The workshop witnessed a huge turnout of soldiers and their families from units within 81 Division Area of Responsibility.

Highlights of the seminar were the presentation of souvenirs and group photographs.