The Federal Government of Nigeria is gearing up to conduct a comprehensive drug use survey as part of its intensified efforts to combat drug abuse and implement effective preventive measures, according to a report by The PUNCH.
The upcoming survey aims to break the cycle of drug abuse and protect the youth from falling prey to illicit substances. It also seeks to ensure that resources are allocated efficiently to address this pressing societal issue.
President Bola Tinubu highlighted these initiatives during an event in Abuja commemorating the 2024 United Nations International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Drug Trafficking, themed “The Evidence is Clear: Invest in Prevention”.
Established by the United Nations General Assembly on December 7, 1987, the International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking serves to raise awareness about the profound challenges posed by illicit drugs to societies worldwide.
Drug abuse encompasses the harmful or hazardous use of psychoactive substances, including alcohol and illicit drugs, leading to addiction and other severe health and social consequences.
The event, supported by the MTN Foundation, underscores the importance of education, prevention, and treatment programs in combating drug abuse and illegal drug trade globally.
During his keynote address, President Tinubu, represented by Senator George Akume, emphasized the urgent need to address the rising incidence of drug abuse, stressing its detrimental impact on social, economic, and health sectors.
He stated, “Our gathering today reminds us of our urgent duty as a nation to allocate more resources towards combating the consequences of illicit drug use. Drug abuse not only destroys lives but also strains our healthcare system, imposing a burden on both the government and society.”
President Tinubu advocated for preventive measures as the most effective strategy in saving lives and promoting healthy lifestyles. He called for comprehensive interventions targeting various sectors such as schools, markets, motor parks, workplaces, and communities.
“In the face of this formidable challenge, prevention remains our strongest weapon,” he asserted. “By investing in prevention programs, we can break the cycle of drug abuse and protect our youth from this menace.”
He also expressed support for the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and its “War Against Drug Abuse” (WADA) campaign, pledging government support to build on past successes and ensure positive outcomes from the upcoming national drug use survey.
In his address, NDLEA Director General, Mohamed Buba Marwa, highlighted the agency’s recent achievements in combating drug trafficking and abuse. Over the past three years, the NDLEA has arrested over 52,901 drug traffickers, including 48 major distributors, and secured more than 9,000 convictions. The agency has also seized a substantial amount of illicit substances, totaling 7.6 million kilograms.
Marwa emphasized the cost-effectiveness of prevention measures over dealing with the consequences of drug abuse, underscoring the agency’s commitment to prevention programs as a core strategy.
Chairman of the MTN Foundation, Prince Julius Adelusi-Adeluyi, urged all levels of government to collaborate in developing and implementing clear policies and plans to combat drug abuse effectively across all sectors.
The upcoming national drug use survey represents a pivotal step towards enhancing Nigeria’s efforts to tackle drug abuse comprehensively and safeguard the well-being of its citizens.
