‘Fight against abuse’ CADAM to operate across Nigeria, beyond

In its mission to consistently fight substance abuse and continuously rehabilitate and reintegrate drug users into the society, Christ Against Drug Abuse Ministry (CADAM), a non-governmental organization at the forefront of fighting drug abuse has expanded its organizational structure in order to reach more parts of Nigeria and beyond.

This was made known by Chairman of the NGO, Anthony Aletor in a chat with the media at the graduation ceremony of the 49th set of CADAM beneficiaries held at the Enoch & Folu Adeboye Rehabilitation Centre at Araga, Epe, Lagos.

Aletor revealed that the NGO has upgraded its management and has become corporate governance compliant. “Our intention is to be everywhere, pan-Nigerian first and then go international. We have upscaled the Directorate. Now we have a DG and we have three directorates which are: Program and Orientation; Finance and Corporate Services; Rehabilitation and Field Operations.” He added that the intention is to get all 36 Governors and FCT involved.

Earlier, while welcoming guests and congratulating CADAM graduates, Aletor who is also the Vice Chairman, Capital Express Assurance Limited expressed his gratitude for the occasion and the success of CADAM. “We thank the Almighty God for the opportunity of even having this ceremony to send forth to the outside world, 31 Men of Honour and 5 virtuous ladies to begin a new lease of life, despite the challenges of covid-19 pandemic.

“There’s no doubt that CADAM in its 30 years of existence, has contributed to the successful treatment and rehabilitation of 3000 beneficiaries, most of whom are now living productive, independent and drug-free lives in various areas of human engagements and are indeed happy to witness another send-forth,” he revealed.

Commenting on the achievement of CADAM in recent years, Aletor revealed that CADAM now has a Head Office located at Agidingbi which makes it possible to receive dignitaries from NDLEA and other accredited drug related agencies as well as provide counselling services. He added that the NGO has increased its capacity and reach with the addition of directorates, the appointment of a DG and other measures that will ensure its operation across the 36 states, the FCT and beyond Nigeria to ensure a drug free world.

“This we intend to do by ensuring full commitment to our five-year strategic direction which includes the desire to have regional offices in the 6 geopolitical zones and more rehabilitation centers across the country, whilst working with some state Governments to help them manage their drug problems and initiating more social awareness programs on the national drug problems through radio and TV programs with the help of many organizations,” he revealed.

Also speaking at the occasion is wife of the General Overseer of the Redeemed Christian Church of God Pastor (Mrs) Folu Adeboye who is the Matron of CADAM. While also welcoming guests to what she described an “all-important and solemn occasion of the Graduation of these men of honour and virtuous ladies,” she said that the event marks a landmark occasion in the lives of the graduates and that of CADAM as a ministry.

“I am a proud Mother today to these beautiful children of God and a witness to what God is doing in the lives of any beneficiary that steps in here, their families, CADAM itself and the society at large. We all know that substance abuse disorders has ravaged our Nation and this unfortunate situation is clear reminder that all hands must be on deck to save our youths from destruction as well as the soul of our nation.

“This is one of the reasons that the General Overseer of the Mission, Pastor E.A Adeboye as a Patron, is committed to the activities of this ministry. This also has caused me to take this ministry under my wings to assist in every way possible to achieve its purpose and objectives. I thank God daily for all the members of the Board of Trustees and especially the Chairman, for their commitment to make this ministry an international organisation in the treatment and rehabilitation of people with substance use disorders,” she said.

She added, “Today, we will be bidding these 36 persons farewell as they re-join their families and the larger society. My prayer for them as always is that our Lord will keep them safe as they walk the narrow path of faith and righteousness. May they never return to their vomit but go to perform exploits living drug-free independent and productive lives.

“To their parents and family members, I say congratulations and pray that God Himself will guide you as you help them to settle back into normal lives. Please, never remind them of the past they have left behind but help them to hold on to the Cross of Jesus they now bear. God will help you all,” she prayed.

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