Nicholas Ojo
The number of people using drugs will rise by 11 per cent around the world by 2030, and as much as 40 per cent in Africa alone, the demographic factors projection reveals.
The Chairman of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Retd), who made the revelation on Thursday in Lagos, charged parents and other stakeholders to rise up to the challenge of ensuring that illicit substances are kept away from young Nigerians
The NDLEA boss warned that complacency is capable of compromising the bright future of the youth population.
This is contained in a statement signed by Mr Femi Babafemi, Director, Media and Advocacy of the agency, noting that it’s an early warning that should be taken seriously and ensure that young people are kept away from dangerous substances that compromise their futures.
Marwa explained that instead of benefitting from the advantages of the huge youth population in Nigeria, the reverse may be the case if relevant stakeholders fail to stand up and join ongoing efforts against the drug scourge.
He said; “It is globally recognised that one of Africa’s comparative advantages is its huge youth population. This country, Nigeria, for instance, has no less than 151 million young people, accounting for 70% of our estimated 217 million population.
“Most of us don’t know what that means. Youth means creativity, strength, resourcefulness and productivity. But how do we rake in these benefits when a significant number of this population is involved in the abuse of illicit substances?
“The truth is, instead of a boon they could become a burden because of abuse of illicit substances.”
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He said in response to whole-of-society approaches needed to ensure that people, young people most of all, have the information and develop the resilience to make good choices, especially as it relates to drug abuse, the NDLEA has initiated some youth focused measures to safeguard them against the pressures and temptations of going into drugs.
Such measures, he said, include: “War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) campaign, a grassroots-oriented advocacy which we are using to diffuse anti-drug sentiment across the various strata of our society; NDLEA Twitter Space where drug issues are discussed by experts from within the country and around the world to an audience of young people.
“A 24/7 Drug Abuse call centre with a toll-free helpline: 0800 1020 3040, which allows drug users, their families and employers to seek treatment without compromising their identities or safety, as well as open-door treatment at 26 NDLEA treatment facilities across the country.
“This has become necessary following the release of the 2018 National Drug Use and Health Survey.
“Nigeria has been seeking solutions to the drug scourge, especially as it pertains to youths. The administration of President Muhammadu Buhari gives NDLEA unflinching support.
“The Agency in turn has been working on several measures which are largely youth-focused,” he added.