By Micheal Ofulue,
Kayode Olabanji,
Precious Owolabi

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The menace of drug abuse among the Nigerian youths has taken an alarming dimension in recent times. Weekend Hope spoke with stakeholders on how government can tackle the menace.
Excerpts:

If the government is truly serious about tackling drug abuse, it must go after those responsible for importing illicit drugs, because that’s where the real solution lies. Illicit drugs are sold discreetly; you rarely find dealers operating openly in town.

Internet fraudsters, commonly known as ‘Yahoo Boys’, have also contributed significantly to the rise in drug abuse. The problem worsened in 2021, with many young people becoming completely dependent. Even marijuana use is becoming normalised — you see people smoking it openly on the streets without fear. Enforcement has become weak.

Of course, some drugs are medically acceptable when used under proper prescription.

The Nigerian government can address drug abuse among youths through a multi-faceted approach. This should include educating young people through school programmes and awareness campaigns, strengthening law enforcement, and establishing well-equipped rehabilitation centres.

Community-based initiatives, economic empowerment programmes, and active parental involvement, also play a vital role in prevention. Furthermore, the government should collaborate with NGOs, relevant stakeholders, and international organisations, while also reinforcing the legislative framework and closely monitoring the effectiveness of anti-drug abuse efforts.

There are many things the government can do to address drug abuse.

Government should ensure that accessible and affordable treatment  options are available for young people struggling with drug addiction. This includes providing counseling, therapy, and medication-assisted treatment.  Also,  rehabilitation centres are necessary.

Developing programmes that target risk factors for drug use, such as poverty, unemployment, and lack of access to opportunities. These programmes can provide alternative activities, mentorship, and support systems.

Partnering with community organisations, parents, and educators to create a supportive environment for youth and address the root causes of drug abuse.

T he government can stop drug abuse in Nigeria by introducing drug education into the school curriculum. Students should be taught about the dangers of drug abuse, its effects on health, and the consequences of addiction.

Public awareness should be taken seriously. Nationwide campaigns  should be organised to raise awareness about the risks of drug abuse, using media, social media, and community outreach programmes.

Drug laws and enforcement should be strengthened, thereby enhancing legislation and law enforcement efforts to curb drug trafficking and distribution.

Specialised Courts should be created to handle drug-related cases, focusing on rehabilitation rather than punishment.

They should enforce stricter drug laws to limit the production, importation, distribution of illicit drugs and empower agencies like the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency(NDLEA), to crack down on drug cartels

Government should also monitor pharmaceutical companies and chemists to prevent the abuse of prescription drugs like codeine and tramadol.

They should provide rehabilitation and support centres, offer psychological counseling, vocational training, and reintegration programmes for affected youths.

The first thing government can do is to accept the fact that drug abuse among Nigerian youths has assumed a very dangerous dimension and that many lives are being wasted over this menace. Then, show sincere commitment to tackle the challenge.

One of the steps to be taken is for government to embark on orientation and sensitisation for youths about values and morals, bring on board traditional, religious and school leaders, set up a special agency that would rehabilitate youths who are addicted to drugs and ensure that the sellers and peddlers of these drugs are apprehended and made to face the legal music.

The punishment for convicted offenders either selling or using drugs should be stiffer to deter others from going into it. Government should ensure that children who stay in squallors and do not have parental care are given appropriate attention.

Parents should be warned against allowing their children to live wayward lives and there should be severe punishment for parents or guardians whose child or children are found abusing drugs.

All touts and thugs should be taken off the streets, so that they will stop luring innocent children into drug abuse.

Mr Timothy Agbor, Journalist

Although, drugs related issues are within  the preview of the NDLEA. With my experience when I was in the Narcotics section at the State Criminal Investigation Department (SCID),  I can proffer some possible solutions.

I will suggest there should be curriculum for teachings on drug abuse from elementary school to tertiary institution.  Also, posters of ‘No to Drugs’ should be at conspicuous places where youths patronise.

 I will equally advise parents not to expose their wards to addiction of drugs, while government should enact a law that will serve as a punishment to any youth found with prohibited drugs.

I will recommend regular evaluation of effectiveness of drug prevention programmes, make adjustments as needed and strengthen existing laws and regulations related to drug trafficking, possession, and use.

The government should impose harsh penalties for drug-related offences, especially for those involved in trafficking and selling drugs to youths and provide training and resources to law enforcement agencies to effectively combat drug trafficking and abuse.

Also they should offer counseling and therapy services to help youths overcome addiction and address underlying issues and encourage the formation of support groups for youths recovering from drug addiction.

Curbing drug abuse among Nigerian youths is a shared responsibility. It is a serious challenge that requires joint efforts from both the government and the parents.

Parents must play an active role in guiding their children, monitoring their associations, and offering emotional support.

Many young people turn to drugs for different reasons — some due to depression, others as a result of poor parental care, negative peer influence, or the environment they grow up in. The current economic hardship in the country also contributes significantly to this growing issue.

To effectively tackle drug abuse, the government should prioritise easing economic hardship, creating more job opportunities, and strengthening agencies responsible for drug control.

With sound policies and strong family values, we can significantly reduce drug abuse and build a brighter future for our youths.