The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has disclosed that an alarming 14 million Nigerians are currently battling drug abuse, a stark reminder of the growing drug epidemic that is ravaging communities across the country.
The disclosure was made by Mrs. Yetunde Joyifous, the Deputy Commander of the NDLEA in Ondo State, during a recent awareness program organized by the Oijefon Youth Council in the Ile Oluji/Oke-Igbo Local Government Area of the state. The event, aimed at sensitizing secondary school students to the dangers of substance abuse, shed light on the devastating impact of drugs on Nigerian society, particularly on young people.
“We cannot ignore the fact that a staggering 14 million Nigerians are addicted to harmful drugs. This number is deeply concerning,” Joyifous said, addressing a crowd of secondary school students and community leaders gathered for the event. “Most of these drugs are harmful chemicals that negatively alter the mind and behavior of users, leading them down a dangerous path.”
She further emphasized that the fight against drug abuse in Nigeria must be a collective effort involving all segments of society, from community members to governmental agencies.
“The solution lies in collaboration. We need all hands on deck—schools, families, law enforcement, and civil organizations. This is not a challenge for one group alone,” Joyifous stated.
The NDLEA’s revelation comes amidst a troubling rise in the use of drugs such as cannabis, opioids, and other harmful substances. According to Joyifous, young people—especially students—are among the most vulnerable to drug abuse, with peer pressure, stress, and curiosity often driving them toward substance use.
“Young people are at the heart of this crisis,” she added. “They are the ones who are most susceptible to the allure of drugs. It is imperative that we act swiftly and decisively to prevent the next generation from falling into the trap of addiction.”
The awareness program, which targeted secondary school students in the region, featured talks on the risks of drug use and strategies to resist peer pressure. Local officials from the National Orientation Agency (NOA) also participated in the event, further underlining the importance of education in combating the drug abuse menace.
In his address, the President of the Oijefon Youth Council, Adedokun Adeyonu, spoke passionately about the need to empower youth with knowledge and alternatives to drug abuse.
“We are here today to address a serious issue that affects not just individuals but our entire society,” Adeyonu remarked. “Drug abuse has far-reaching consequences, not only on the health of those involved but on the social fabric of our communities. Our goal is to help youth understand the dangers of drug use and encourage them to make better choices.”
Adeyonu explained that drug abuse is often driven by a range of factors, including peer pressure, curiosity, and the desire to escape personal challenges. He urged both young people and adults to be more vigilant and proactive in addressing these issues.
“Drugs offer a temporary escape, but they come at a steep cost,” Adeyonu explained. “People may turn to substances like alcohol, tobacco, and even illegal drugs as a way to deal with their problems, thinking it’s the only solution. But in reality, these substances only worsen the situation.”
The sensitization program was structured around key themes, such as the dangers of drug abuse, understanding the psychological effects of addiction, and providing support to individuals struggling with addiction. The goal was to create a more informed, empowered community capable of preventing drug abuse before it takes hold.
Throughout the event, students shared their concerns about the growing prevalence of drug use in their schools and communities. Several students admitted to being aware of peers who were already using drugs, highlighting the urgency of tackling the problem at the grassroots level.
“I have seen many of my friends experimenting with drugs, and it worries me. They think it’s cool, but they don’t realize how dangerous it is,” said Titi, a student at one of the participating schools. “I hope we can have more of these kinds of programs to help us stay away from drugs.”
Titi’s sentiment was echoed by others in the audience, with many students expressing their desire for more education on the dangers of substance abuse and how to avoid falling into its grip.
The issue of drug abuse has been a longstanding challenge in Nigeria, with the country seeing an increase in the number of people, particularly the youth, engaging in substance use. The NDLEA has repeatedly warned that if left unchecked, drug abuse could lead to even greater social and economic problems, including violence, mental health disorders, and a strain on the healthcare system.
Experts have pointed to several root causes contributing to the rise in drug abuse among Nigerian youth, including socio-economic pressures, family instability, and the lack of recreational opportunities for young people. Furthermore, the growing prevalence of drug trafficking in the country has made it easier for substances to flood local markets, making them more accessible to young consumers.
The NDLEA’s Joyifous also highlighted the importance of continued awareness campaigns, counseling services, and stronger enforcement of drug-related laws to curb the rise of addiction.
“We cannot win this battle without a sustained effort,” Joyifous noted. “We need everyone, from parents to teachers to local government officials, to understand the gravity of this issue and work together to prevent further harm.”
The Oijefon Youth Council, which partnered with the NDLEA for the program, has committed to continuing its efforts in promoting drug-free living and providing more platforms for youth education. Adeyonu closed the event by urging everyone to take personal responsibility for the well-being of the next generation.
“We all have a part to play,” Adeyonu said. “Let’s work together to create a healthier, drug-free society.”
