NDLEA Partners SWAN Against Drug Abuse

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has called on the Sports Writers Association of Nigeria (SWAN) to partner with them in combating Drug Abuse among Athletes. The NDLEA Commander in Ogun State, Tijani Rabe, made this appeal during a working visit by SWAN’s Executive Members to the NDLEA office in Abeokuta. The visit was in connection with the 5th Edition of the SWAN Security Cup in Ogun State.

Rabe emphasized that sports is a valuable tool in eradicating drug abuse among youths, as it engages the mind and eliminates boredom – a common reason for drug use. He noted that sports can serve as a positive outlet for young people’s energy and creativity, reducing the likelihood of substance abuse. According to Rabe, “Sports is one of the activities to prevent drug abuse. One of the reasons people, especially our youths, do drugs is boredom. But sports will engage the minds and it will take away your boredom.”

However, Rabe also highlighted the issue of athletes misusing performance-enhancing drugs (PEDs), which can have serious health consequences. He warned that PEDs can damage the liver, kidney, and brain, and urged athletes to prioritize their health and well-being. “Some sports men and women use performance enhancement drugs to stimulate their body system, but it affects their liver, kidney, and brain in the long run,” he said.

The NDLEA Commander praised SWAN for its Community engagement with Security Agencies in Ogun State, particularly through the SWAN Security Cup. He commended the initiative for promoting unity and cooperation among security operatives and encouraged SWAN to expand the tournament to include other indoor games. Rabe stated, “I commend SWAN for your community engagement, for trying to bring the security personnel closer to the people, so that the people will not see us as enemies. We are part of society, and people should see us as their friends.”

SWAN Chairman Michael-Azeez Ogunsiji commended NDLEA for its efforts against drug abuse among youths. He stated that the SWAN Security Cup aims to strengthen the peaceful relationship among security agencies in Ogun State. Ogunsiji emphasized the importance of collaboration in promoting a safe and healthy environment for athletes and the broader community

• Partnership Call: NDLEA urges SWAN to join forces to combat drug abuse in sports.
• Sports as Prevention: Sports can prevent drug abuse by engaging minds and reducing boredom.
• Dangers of PEDs: Performance-enhancing drugs can harm athletes’ health.
• Community Engagement: SWAN’s Security Cup promotes unity among security agencies.
• Expansion Proposal: NDLEA suggests including more indoor games in the SWAN Security Cup.

By working together, NDLEA and SWAN can help promote a healthier and safer environment for athletes and the broader community.