NAFDAC Reveals 14.3 Million Nigerians Affected by Drug Abuse, Launches Youth Initiative. The National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has disclosed that approximately 14.3 million Nigerians are grappling with drug abuse, highlighting a pressing public health concern across the nation. This revelation was made by NAFDAC's Director-General, Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, during the inauguration of the agency's youth-focused program, "Catch Them Young," at Government Secondary School, Rumuokwuta, Port Harcourt. The initiative aims to curb the rising tide of drug abuse among secondary school students by fostering awareness and preventive measures.
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Prof. Adeyeye emphasized the gravity of the situation, noting that research indicates one in four high-risk drug users has been arrested for drug-related offenses. Breakdown of these arrests reveals that 73% were for drug possession, 12% for theft, 5% for sex work, 4% for burglary, and 2% for shoplifting. She cautioned that these figures likely underrepresent the true scope of the problem, as many incidents go unreported. "Drug addiction can stem from both legally prescribed medications and illicit substances," Prof. Adeyeye stated. "This program isn't aimed at instilling fear but rather fostering honest discussions that empower students to make informed choices regarding illicit drug use, including alcohol consumption." The "Catch Them Young" initiative is part of NAFDAC's comprehensive strategy to address drug abuse at its roots, particularly among the youth. By engaging secondary school students through education and awareness campaigns, the agency seeks to build resilience against the allure of drug use.
Mr. Onogwu Emmanuel, NAFDAC's State Coordinator for Rivers, underscored the importance of targeting secondary schools for sensitization and capacity-building programs. He highlighted that adolescents are particularly vulnerable to experimenting with drugs, making early intervention crucial. "Students should take the fight against drug abuse seriously because it is a fight for the future of Nigeria," Mr. Emmanuel remarked. The principal of Government Secondary School, Rumuokwuta, Mrs. Gladys Iheumamme, lauded NAFDAC's efforts and urged the agency to sustain the initiative to safeguard the future of Nigerian youth. NAFDAC's proactive approach reflects a broader commitment to combating drug abuse nationwide. By focusing on education and community engagement, the agency aims to reduce the prevalence of drug abuse and its associated social and economic consequences. As Nigeria confronts this escalating challenge, collaborative efforts between government agencies, educational institutions, and communities will be pivotal in reversing the trend and fostering a healthier, drug-free society.
