The Performing Musicians Employer’s Association of Nigeria (PMAN) has collaborated with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) to fight drug abuse among its members and youths.
Leaders from both organisations presented a cooperative proposal to use music as a tool for raising awareness and addressing the widespread issue of illegal substance abuse at this crucial gathering.
The Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of NDLEA, Brig. General Mohammed Buba Marwa (Retd) CON, OFR, stressed the value of using music’s powerful platform to spread preventive and rehabilitation messages. There was unanimity in support for this strategic collaboration, indicating a common commitment to bringing about constructive change in Nigerian communities.
He said musicians should instead use their fame and influence to send a strong message to the youth on the dangers of abusing drugs.
“You have a long reach and influence on the youths. Most youths also look up to you as a role model. And role modeling usually involves them trying to copy. It is time for NDLEA and PMAN to collaborate and fight this war together,” he said.
Mr. Pretty Okafor, President of PMAN, received an award from the NDLEA Chairman in appreciation of his visionary leadership and outstanding leadership for PMAN’s proactive role in advancing social well-being. Mr. Okafor presented PMAN’s bold intentions to open drug rehab facilities, demonstrating the organization’s steadfast dedication to addressing the underlying causes of drug misuse.
A major advancement in Nigeria’s ongoing war on drug usage is the confluence of NDLEA and PMAN. By working together and taking coordinated action, these organisations have the potential to significantly improve the lives of a great number of people who suffer from substance abuse.
“PMAN as an organisation is against the use of drugs. Unfortunately, some of its members seem to encourage the use of drugs. Sometimes, they make it sound like the use of drugs facilitates success and they make it seem like if you do not use it, you have not arrived.
“Please get a strong message across to the membership of PMAN to encourage youths to stay away from drugs because it is dangerous. Some of the members use drugs. We in the NDLEA are ready to support the organisation with the use of blood tests and facilities under our command.”
On his part, Pretty Okafor, the chairman of PMAN, also advised artistes that they could become the likes of Wizkid and Burna Boy without taking drugs.
“We want to try as much as possible to disabuse the minds of musicians and youths from drugs,” he said.
“You can be a Wizkid, Wande Coal, Burna Boy or whoever you want to be without taking drugs.”
