Churches cannot ignore the realities on the ground regarding drug situation – Naivalurua

Fiji’s growing drug problem cannot be solved by law enforcement alone, and I'm calling on churches to work together in unity as the Government cannot do this without the church, and the church cannot stand apart from the realities on the ground.

That was the message of Minister for Policing, Ioane Naivalurua as he officially opened the National Pastoral Response to Drugs organised by the Fiji Council of Churches.

Speaking to church leaders, community representatives and stakeholders, Naivalurua says drugs are reshaping families, villages, schools, workplaces and churches, and pose a serious social, moral and spiritual crisis for the country.

Naivalurua explains that Fiji needs a balanced “black gloves and white gloves” approach, where black gloves represent enforcement, interdiction and prosecutions, while white gloves focus on community action, prevention, early intervention, healing and strengthening families.

The Minister says policing alone cannot heal a nation and highlights the vital role of churches and communities in reducing demand and protecting people from the harm caused by drugs.

Insert : Naivalurua on Drugs 9th Feb 2026

He says the fight against drugs must go beyond political cycles, adding that governments may change, but the threat will remain if communities do not work together.

Naivalurua says the initiative aligns with Government’s National Counter Narcotic Strategy 2023–2028, but emphasises that no strategy can succeed without strong community involvement and moral leadership.

Naivalurua says the focus moving forward must be on unity of effort with a heart of love, as Fiji begins a shared journey to protect lives, restore families and secure the future of the nation.