Khadijah Aliyu
The Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has officially handed over the Dater Ward for Occupational Therapy to Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital (AKTH).
The center is part of ECOWAS’s mission to support its member states in treating and rehabilitating drug addicts.
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The event marks a significant milestone in the fight against drug abuse.
According to the Director of Humanitarian and Social Affairs ECOWAS, Dr. Sintiki Tarfa Ugbe, the project aims to have at least one national drug treatment center in each member state.
Represented by the principal program officer, who doubles as head of ECOWAS drug prevention and control division Dr Daniel Amankwaah, he explained that the facilities at Aminu Kano Teaching Hospital represent another significant achievement in its mission to provide comprehensive and accessible care for those affected by substance use disorders
The director highlighted that the project targets all member states to have at least one national drug treatment centre, saying that, so far, eight centers have been completed in six member states, with 12 more under construction.
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“This facility will contribute to improving social functioning, reducing the harmful effects of substance use, and enhancing the quality of life for PWUDs.”
The Chief Medical Director of AKTH, Dr. Abdulrahman Sheshe, commended ECOWAS for its philanthropic gesture and pledged to utilize the center judiciously.
“In 2022, ECOWAS donated funds to AKTH to purchase essential commodities, but now the Darker center will provide the opportunity to rehabilitate and treat drug addicts.“
The Kano State NDLEA Commandant, Alhaji Ahmed Idris, described the center as a beacon of hope for drug addicts and noted the command’s achievements in client rehabilitation and counseling, drug seizure, and sensitization.
“NDLEA intercepted a large consignment of tramadol and other harmful drugs, while in the area of client counseling and rehabilitation, men and women have been integrated while the public has been sensitized and informed about the menace.”