Tackling drug abuse

THE incarceration of many Nigerian youths over drug abuse and addiction is a serious problem. The number of youths in various prisons across the country has increased dramatically over the past decades.  The majority of these youths have been arrested for drug-related offences.

The world today is witnessing an upsurge in issues that are of global dimension, such as human trafficking, HIV/AIDS, environment degradation and pollution.

The challenge posed by drug abuse points to a pressing need to sensitise Nigerians, especially the youths, on its negative effects. It has reached an alarming stage.

The societal effects of drugabuse include road accidents, loss of jobs, poor academic and job performances, and instability in the family set up. These should be a source of concern to the government.

As noted by researchers, peer pressures and depression are primary causes of drug abuse. The rate of unemployment is another major cause of drug abuse among youths.

However, it is fair to note that since the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency [NDLEA] was set up in 1999, frantic efforts have been made to collect relevant information on the indicators of drug abuse for policy formulation.

The impact of the agency in terms of intervention strategies and control has been tremendous. It, however, needs to do more.

The remedies for drugabuse should include rehabilitation of affected persons. In addition, parents should monitor the kind of friends their children interact with.

Also, teaching the effects of drug abuse in schools will help a great deal. The consent of a doctor should be sought before the prolonged use of any drug.

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