The Commander of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Edo State Command, Mr. Mitchell Ofoyeyi, has pledged the full support of the agency for Project RISE—Resisting Initiation, Securing Education—a community-driven anti-cultism and youth empowerment campaign organised by the Office of the Senior Special Assistant on Special Duties to the Edo State Government, Hon. Uriesi Aarebamen Alex.
According to a statement issued by his Special Assistant on Media, Peter Oriri, this was made known during a strategic meeting held over the weekend at the NDLEA Command Headquarters in Benin City, where Mr. Ofoyeyi commended the vision behind the project and emphasised the need for a united front in tackling cultism and drug abuse among the youth.
“The fight against cultism is not for security agencies alone,” the Commander said. “It requires deliberate engagement with the community and sustained awareness efforts targeted at our youth.” He lauded the efforts of Hon. Uriesi, acknowledging the personal commitment and resilience required to drive such an initiative. According to him, Project RISE aligns closely with the agency’s mandate, particularly in addressing the links between drug abuse and cult-related activities.
The Commander also directed senior members of his management team—including the Director of Intelligence, Director of Administration, and other top officials—to fully engage and collaborate with the organisers of Project RISE. He further confirmed his participation as a guest speaker at the upcoming event scheduled to take place at the University of Benin in August.
As part of his address, Mr. Ofoyeyi stated that the NDLEA would use the opportunity to sensitise students on the dangers of drug abuse and its correlation with cultism, criminality, and social decay.
Hon. Uriesi described the meeting as productive and energising, highlighting the open and insightful dialogue shared with the agency’s leadership. He expressed confidence that the partnership with NDLEA would deepen the impact of Project RISE, particularly in reaching vulnerable youth across Edo State.
Project RISE is expected to bring together students, security agencies, community leaders, and educators to promote anti-cultism, drug resistance, and academic excellence.
