Drug abuse: Nigeria’s future at stake

By: Kolade Samuel Toluwalase

The rising trend of illicit substance consumption among Nigeria’s youthful population is a pressing concern that warrants immediate attention. It is disheartening to witness young people, both men and women, jeopardizing their promising futures due to drug addiction. Statistics indicate that approximately 20% of Nigerian youths are struggling with substance abuse daily, which poses a significant threat to the nation’s future leadership and development.

The future of our nation hangs in the balance, and it is imperative that we take decisive action to combat this issue. Unfortunately, it appears that the gravity of the situation has been overlooked, and the focus has shifted to other pressing matters. The momentum to address drug abuse and its eradication seems to have waned, despite the fact that the battle against this threat is far from over.

The prevalence of substance abuse among youths is a distressing issue, and it is essential that we adopt a comprehensive approach to tackle it. To effectively combat drug abuse, we must prioritize strategies such as creating employment opportunities, conducting awareness campaigns, implementing poverty alleviation programs, and providing youth empowerment and skill acquisition initiatives.

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It is important to recognize that drug abuse is a serious issue that requires vigorous and rapid response, similar to the measures taken to address the COVID-19 pandemic. I urge the Nigerian government, non-governmental organizations, and fellow citizens to join forces in the fight against substance abuse, which threatens the future of our nation. By working together, we can safeguard the well-being and prosperity of Nigeria and its people.

Kolade Samuel Toluwalase, 300L student, Department of Mass Communication, Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago-iwoye, Ogun state.