NARDWAP Director Nagbe Proposes 10-Youth Sponsorship Per Legislator to Combat Growing Drug Crisis

Monrovia, Liberia: Executive Director of the National Rehabilitation for War and Drug Affected Persons (NARDWAP), Retired Lieutenant Colonel Augustine Nagbe, has formally proposed that each member of the National Legislature sponsor at least ten disadvantaged youths at rehabilitation centers across Liberia, presenting the measure as a critical response to the country’s escalating drug abuse and social vulnerability challenges.

Speaking during a media preview of a film produced by youths in the Borough of New Kru Town on Bushrod Island, Lt. Col. Nagbe, widely known as “General Power,” emphasized the urgency of coordinated government and civic action to support Liberia’s at-risk populations. 

He called on well-meaning Liberians and invoked President Joseph Boakai as a paternal figure whose leadership should guide immediate assistance for vulnerable children.

“Let me put this challenge to them: if each representative can take just ten disadvantaged youths off the streets, it will be a welcoming effort,” Nagbe stated, highlighting both the achievable scope of the initiative and the potential nationwide impact if fully implemented. 

He cited Montserrado County Senator Darius Dillon’s dedicated rehabilitation center as an effective model demonstrating the positive outcomes of structured intervention.

General Power expressed disappointment over the apparent lack of engagement by many legislators in addressing the plight of “Zogo” and other at-risk youths, noting that the problem has grown increasingly acute due to years of neglect. 

He underscored that legislative sponsorship would not only provide direct relief but also constitute a strategic investment in social stability and long-term reintegration of disadvantaged youths.

The Executive Director also lamented insufficient support from government officials and international NGOs, particularly during festive periods when vulnerable youths experience heightened need. 

“What surprises me most is that during the holidays, some senators or representatives cannot even bring a single bag of rice at Christmas. I often have to rely on credit from Fula business people,” he revealed, underscoring gaps in systemic support for Liberia’s most marginalized children.