The Oyo State Security Network Agency, known as Amotekun Corps, has partnered with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency to tackle drug abuse and its associated security challenges across the state.

The State Commissioner for Information, Dotun Oyelade, disclosed this in a statement on Tuesday following a one-day sensitisation programme organised by the NDLEA for Amotekun operatives.

He said the collaboration would focus on preventing drug abuse, identifying substance-related risks, promoting healthy coping strategies and encouraging responsible conduct and community-based approaches to building drug-free communities.

The Commandant of the Oyo Amotekun Corps, Col. Olayinka Olayanju (retd.), represented by the Director of Finance and Accounts, Mrs Adigun Yetunde, stressed the importance of continuous training and capacity building for personnel.

Olayanju said better understanding of substance abuse would enable operatives to identify emerging risks, respond appropriately and contribute more effectively to prevention efforts within their areas of operation.

He urged the personnel to apply the knowledge gained through responsible observation, information gathering and collaboration with relevant agencies.

The Staff Officer, Drug Integrity Test, NDLEA Oyo State Command, O. A. Achichi, said the fight against drug abuse required collective efforts involving security agencies, families, schools, community leaders and other stakeholders.

Achichi also urged Amotekun personnel to maintain professionalism when handling suspected drug-related cases, stressing that suspicion should not be treated as proof.

He advised operatives to observe, verify and properly document relevant information before referring cases requiring specialised drug-law enforcement attention to the NDLEA or other competent agencies.

The NDLEA Staff Officer, Prevention and Sensitisation, Peter Akinbode, identified peer influence, curiosity, stress, trauma, unemployment and social pressure among factors that could encourage substance use.

He said drug abuse could negatively affect individuals, families, youths and community security.