The Federal Government issued a stern warning on Saturday, urging youths to avoid involvement in illicit drugs, emphasizing that such activities are harmful and pose a serious threat to human survival.
Dr. Jamila Ibrahim, the Minister of Youth Development, delivered this warning in Ado-Ekiti at the conclusion of a two-day sensitization program focused on eliminating drug and substance abuse among young people in the southern region of the country.
Represented by Alhaji Alu Mohammed, a Director in the ministry, Ibrahim reaffirmed the government’s commitment to eradicating the scourge of hard drugs, stating that no effort would be spared in tackling this menace.
“This event is apt, coming at a time the Federal Government has renewed commitment towards developing a drugs free society, in line with the United Nations’ pronouncement on drugs and crimes.
“This is necessary, thereby, sharing the real facts on drugs, from health risks and solutions to tackle world drug problems, to evidence-based prevention, treatment and care among young people.
“As we all know, drug and substance abuse remain 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,” he said.
The minister highlighted that recent studies have revealed a significant rise in the number of young boys and girls succumbing to substance abuse, alongside a growing demand and supply of such drugs within society.
She noted that the government has identified several social factors contributing to drug use and abuse. Among these are peer pressure, association with negative influences, and the absence of genuine and sincere warning signals, among other factors.
Ibrahim said that such social factors would now be tackled.
“To this end, it is necessary that we join hands to formulate appropriate measures that will lead to drug/substance abuse free society,” he said.
The minister urged state governments and other relevant stakeholders to collaborate with the Federal Government to eradicate this menace.
In addition, the Ekiti State Commissioner for Youth Development, Adeola Adebayo, expressed gratitude to the Federal Government for selecting the state as the host for the southern region’s initiative.
Adebayo, represented by a Director in the ministry, Adesoye Odunayo, assured that the current administration under Governor Biodun Oyebanji would fully cooperate with the Federal Government to ensure the successful eradication of drug abuse.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reported that over 100 participants attended the sensitization conference, which also featured a roadshow through the streets of Ado-Ekiti. During the event, flyers warning against drug addiction were distributed to residents.
