First Bank of Nigeria Ltd (FirstBank) has reaffirmed commitment to partnership with National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in strengthening the fight against drug trafficking and abuse in the nation.
The Chief Executive Officer (CEO) if FirstBank, Mr Olusegun Alebiosu, in a statement on Wednesday, highlighted the importance of increased collaboration between the bank and the NDLEA.
The statement issued in Lagos by Mr Olayinka Ijabiyi, Acting Group Head, Marketing and Corporate Communications, FirstBank, said the partnership aimed to minimise and ultimately eradicate drug trafficking and abuse in Nigeria.
Ijabiyi said the collaboration was established during a recent courtesy visit of the NDLEA management to the bank’s Head Office in Marina.
Alebiosu, while appreciating the visit, said FirstBank believed that both public and private institutions had important roles to play in building safer, more secure and more prosperous society.
“The work that the NDLEA does in safeguarding our nation from the menace of drug trafficking, abuse, and associated vices cannot be overstated.
“Your unwavering commitment to protecting our communities, especially the youth, from the devastating effects of drug abuse is both commendable and inspiring.
“Our support for the NDLEA is rooted in this belief, and we are proud to stand in solidarity with you in the fight against illicit drug trafficking and its consequences.
“This is a profound gesture that reiterates the critical role of collaboration in safeguarding the future of our society,” Alebiosu said.
The collaboration between FirstBank and NDLEA is in line with the bank’s Corporate Social Responsibility and Sustainability objectives, particularly in advancing security, health, and community development.
It underscores FirstBank’s steadfast dedication to tackling the pervasive issue of drug trafficking and abuse.
Ms Omolade Fagboyede, Director of Seaport Operations at NDLEA, who led the team appreciated the pivotal role FirstBank had played, particularly in supporting the destruction of seized illicit drugs.
“FirstBank is the first financial institution to actively support our ongoing efforts in combating drug trafficking and abuse.
“On behalf of the Chairman and Chief Executive of the NDLEA, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to the bank for being the first sponsor of the Exhibit Burning Ceremony.
“We look forward to deepening this partnership through continued collaboration and future sponsorships,” Fagboyede said. (NAN)
