The Rivers State Government has praised the efforts of federal security agencies for their sustained collaboration in promoting safety and security across the state.

The Secretary to the State Government, Dagogo Wokoma, gave the commendation in Port Harcourt while receiving the State Commander of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, CN Bature Dawa, during a courtesy visit.

Wokoma said Governor Siminalayi Fubara values the strong synergy among federal and state agencies in advancing his administration’s agenda of peace, prosperity and progress.

He urged residents to remain law-abiding, stressing that adherence to the rule of law is critical to good governance and sustainable development. He added that the state government would continue to support initiatives of security agencies aimed at strengthening public safety.

“Our Governor is committed to peace, progress and prosperity in Rivers State. I therefore encourage all residents, especially young people who are often targeted by those involved in drug abuse, to stay away from drugs, crime and reckless driving,” he said.

In his remarks, NDLEA State Commander, Bature Dawa, disclosed that the agency had arrested 39 suspects in the state between December 2025 and now, with 16 cases currently under investigation.

He noted that the agency, through its Drug Demand Reduction and Drug Supply Control units, has intensified operations to curb illicit drug activities and ensure offenders are prosecuted.

Dawa also called on parents and guardians to monitor their children closely and urged hotel operators to prevent their facilities from being used for drug-related activities.

He further advocated the introduction of drug integrity tests in schools and within the National Youth Service Corps as part of efforts to discourage drug abuse among young people.

In a related development, during a separate visit by the Rivers State Sector Commander of the Federal Road Safety Corps, CC Inyang Umoh, Wokoma urged motorists to comply with traffic regulations and drive responsibly.

The FRSC commander, in turn, commended Governor Fubara for his continued support to the corps in enhancing road safety in the state.