Chief Bola Ahmed Tinubu led federal Government has issued a stern warning to Nigerian youths against the dangers of drug addiction, describing it as one of the most significant challenges facing the younger generation today.
The Minister of Youth Development, Jamila Ibrahim, conveyed this message during a two-day sensitisation program aimed at eliminating drug and substance abuse among young people in the southern region. The event, held in Ado-Ekiti, concluded on Saturday.
Represented by a director in the ministry, Alu Mohammed, the minister emphasised that the government is fully committed to eradicating the menace of illicit drugs.
She stated, “As we all know, drug and substance abuse remains one of the critical challenges facing young boys and girls in our society, and a number of research studies conducted locally and internationally affirmed the diverse causes of substance abuse.”
The minister highlighted a concerning increase in the number of youths succumbing to substance abuse, along with a rising demand and supply of such drugs.
According to her, drug use and abuse have been identified by the government to be influenced by a variety of social factors.
She noted that various social factors, including peer pressure, negative influences, and inadequate warning signals, have been identified as contributing to this growing problem.
“To this end, it is necessary that we join hands to formulate appropriate measures that will lead to a drug/substance abuse-free society,” she added.
Ibrahim urged state governments and other stakeholders to collaborate with the federal government in developing effective strategies to combat drug abuse and create a drug-free society.
Ekiti State Commissioner for Youth Development, Adeola Adebayo, also expressed gratitude to the federal government for selecting the state as the venue for the sensitisation exercise.
Represented by Odunayo Adesoye, a director in the ministry, Adebayo assured that the state government, under Governor Biodun Oyebanji, would work closely with the federal government to achieve success in eradicating drug abuse in the region.