GOODWILL MESSAGE IN SUPPORT OF THE AWARENESS CAMPAIGN ON DRUG ABUSE, SEXUAL HARASSMENT, AND CULTISM PRESENTED BY THE COMMANDING OFFICER, NIGERIAN NAVY FORWARD OPERATING BASE (NNFOB), BONNY, CAPT. MAKSUM MOHAMMED, REPRESENTED BY THE REGULATING OFFICER, NNFOB, BONNY, LT. BELLO MUHAMMAD ON THURSDAY, AUGUST 29, 2024 IN BONNY, RIVERS STATE

PREAMBLE

1. ​It is a great honour to stand before you today, representing the Commanding Officer of Forward Operating Base, Bonny, Captain (Nigerian Navy) Maksum Mohammed, at this vital awareness campaign organised by the Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC), Bonny Division. The Commanding Officer planned to be here this morning because of the importance of the issues to be discussed. However, due to service exigency, he is unable to attend in person. However, he has mandated me to deliver this goodwill message on his behalf.

• ​The issues being addressed here today; drug abuse, sexual harassment, and cultism are of immense significance to the well-being of every community and the nation at large. These challenges have far-reaching consequences that affect individuals, families, and the very fabric of our society.

ON DRUG ABUSE

• ​Drug abuse remains a critical concern, particularly among the youth, who represent the future of our nation. According to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, approximately 5.6% of the global population aged 15-64 has abused drugs. In Nigeria, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency reports that 14.4% of our population is engaged in drug abuse, a staggering figure that underscores the gravity of the situation. The misuse of substances such as cannabis, cocaine, and heroin not only lead to a rise in mental health disorders but also contributes to increased criminal activities and social decay. This is especially concerning in places like Bonny Island, where the local economy heavily depends on the oil and gas industry. The potential loss of skilled labour to drug addiction poses a significant threat to local development and disrupts the socio-economic stability of the region. The 2021 World Drug Report by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, highlights that areas with high levels of drug abuse often experience elevated rates of crime and violence, further destabilizing already vulnerable communities.

• In response to the growing menace of drug abuse, the Nigerian Navy has adopted a comprehensive approach to combat this menace, recognizing it as a direct threat to national security. The Nigerian Navy has implemented a strict zero-tolerance policy towards substance abuse among its personnel, supported by regular sensitization programs, random drug testing, and strict disciplinary measures. These efforts are crucial in maintaining the integrity and operational readiness of the Nigerian Navy. Beyond these internal measures, the Nigerian Navy plays a key role in combating drug trafficking within Nigeria’s maritime environment. For instance, in March 2024, The Nigerian Navy intercepted and arrested some suspects on a vessel laden with about 193 bags of cannabis sativa, worth about N200 million naira along the Badagry waterways.

• In collaboration with other security agencies, such as the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, the Nigerian Navy has conducted joint operations leading to significant seizures of illegal drugs and the dismantling of trafficking networks. For example, the Nigerian Navy Forward Operating Base BONNY in collaboration with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, Bonny Command, conducted a joint anti-narcotics raid operation on 7 July 2024. This raid led to the recovery of substances such as cannabis sativa worth millions of naira and the arrest of 6 suspects involved in the drug trade. Such operations not only disrupt the supply of illegal drugs but also send a strong message to traffickers about the Navy’s commitment to eradicating this scourge.

ON SEXUAL HARASSMENT

• Sexual harassment is a serious violation of human rights and dignity, with far-reaching consequences for the victims and communities. Research by Alliances for Africa a non-governmental organisation in Nigeria, indicates that approximately 50% of women in tertiary institutions in Nigeria have experienced some form of sexual harassment. This disturbing statistic highlights the urgent need for collective action as it fosters a climate of fear and mistrust in communities, thereby undermining social cohesion and hindering collective progress. Addressing sexual harassment necessitates a whole of societal approach to while integrating the legal frameworks such as the Violence Against Persons Prohibition Act of 2015.

• The Nigerian Navy is committed to creating a safe and respectful environment for all, particularly within its ranks and files. The Nigerian Navy has established clear reporting channels for harassment complaints, integrated ongoing education and training programs, and enforced strict disciplinary measures against perpetrators. These actions reflect the Nigerian Navy’s unwavering commitment to upholding the highest standards of conduct within its ranks and the communities we serve.

ON CULTISM

• ​Cultism poses a significant threat to societal stability and development. Originally confined to tertiary institutions, cultism has now infiltrated secondary schools, communities, and even workplaces, dragging more lives into its vicious grip. The temptation of cultism is a trap that leads to a life of fear, violence, and death. Members are often caught in a vicious cycle of brutal crimes, resulting in fatal clashes, severe injuries, and the destruction of property. Joining a cult group not only puts your life at risk but also tarnishes your future. It isolates you from your family and friends, marks you as a criminal, and robs you of opportunities for a better life. The National Bureau of Statistics highlights that cult-related violence has caused countless deaths, leaving communities in a state of constant fear and insecurity.

• The Nigerian Navy, in collaboration with other security agencies like the Nigeria Police Force and the Department of State Services, is committed to cracking down on cult-related activities. For example, in March 2024, the Nigerian Navy Forward Operating Base IBAKA in Akwa Ibom State arrested two armed cultists, who were handed over to the Department of State Services for prosecution. This highlights the consequences of joining a cult and choosing this path is not only a betrayal of your future but also a threat to the safety and well-being of our society. Say no to cultism and help build a secure and thriving community for all.

1. On this note and on behalf of the Commanding Officer, Forward Operating Base BONNY, I must commend the Police Community Relations Committee, Bonny Division, for organizing this important event. Your dedication to raising awareness and sensitizing our community is invaluable. Let us all take this opportunity to learn, share, and commit to making a positive difference. To the youth present here today, I urge you all to stay informed, make wise choices, and seek support when needed. You are the future of this community, and your well-being is our collective responsibility. Together, let us work towards a Bonny Island free from the scourges of drug abuse, sexual harassment, and cultism. Let us build a community where every individual can thrive in peace, security, and mutual respect.

1. Thank you.