The Speaker of the Ekiti State House of Assembly, Adeoye Aribasoye, has called on the youth in the state to abstain from drug abuse in order to fulfill their potential and make meaningful contributions to societal development.

Aribasoye emphasized the need for all stakeholders to join forces in combating the menace of drug abuse to create a healthier society.

During a meeting with leaders and members of the state chapter of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), who organized the “Ekiti Youth Peace Walk” to mark the International Day Against Drug Abuse, Aribasoye also urged the youth to support Governor Biodun Oyebanji in achieving his Shared Prosperity Agenda for the state.

The Speaker praised the youth for their display of banners and placards highlighting the achievements of the Oyebanji Administration.

He encouraged them to actively participate in governance by proposing private bills for consideration by the state legislature, particularly in areas related to policy formulation and decision-making.

Aribasoye further disclosed that the Seventh Assembly is prepared to enact a law banning smoking in public places, noting that it affects both smokers and non-smokers.

Highlighting the detrimental effects of drug abuse on young people, Aribasoye expressed concern over how it has negatively impacted their lives and destroyed their futures.

He called on individuals, authorities, institutions, and organizations to collaborate and put an end to this trend for the sake of the youth and their future.

The Chairman of the state NYCN, Mr. Oluwasegun Famuyibo, pledged the support of the youth and the entire state to the “youth-friendly” Oyebanji Administration.

He applauded the establishment of the Ministry of Youths and Job Creation, which he described as a bold step towards improving the welfare of the younger generation and addressing youth unemployment in the state.

Famuyibo appealed for the Assembly’s support in implementing the Ekiti Youth Policy, which aims to provide various benefits to young people, including job opportunities, entrepreneurship development, empowerment, and more.