Substance abuse is a major problem in Nigeria, with over 14 million people using psychoactive substances. The consequences of substance abuse are devastating, affecting individuals, families, communities, and the nation as a whole. It leads to mental and physical health issues, family breakdowns, reduced productivity, increased crime rates, and economic costs. Corporate organizations have a crucial role to play in combating substance abuse through funding, awareness campaigns, and workplace policies. Examples of companies taking action against substance abuse include MTN Foundation, CVS Health, Walmart, IKEA, H&M, Google, Facebook, and Guinness Nigeria. The government should encourage more private sector involvement in the fight against substance abuse. It is a collective effort that requires partnerships and collaboration. By addressing substance abuse, Nigeria can create a brighter and healthier future for its youth and society as a whole.
In an effort to combat substance abuse among Nigerian youth, the MTN Foundation has partnered with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC). The collaboration is part of the MTN Anti-Substance Abuse Programme (ASAP), which aims to reduce first-time substance abuse among Nigerian youth aged 10 to 25 years. The Chairman of the MTN Foundation, Prince Adelusi-Adeluyi, emphasized the critical need for the ASAP initiative, citing the high unemployment rates in Nigeria as a contributing factor to the pervasive issue of substance abuse. The unemployment rate in Nigeria rose to 5.0% in Q3 2023, and studies show that 14.4% of Nigerians aged 15 to 64 use drugs, nearly three times the global average. The Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Lagos State, Mr. Mobolaji Ogundele, highlighted the state's commitment to tackling substance abuse. The Executive Director of the MTN Foundation, Odunayo Sanya, expressed gratitude for the partnership with Lagos State, stating that initiatives implemented in Lagos have the potential to be replicated across the entire country.
The Kogi State Command of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has been actively working to combat drug trafficking in the state. Between January 1 and June 24, the NDLEA arrested 149 suspects and seized over 1.49 tonnes of illicit drugs in Kogi State. Out of the 149 suspects, 29 have been convicted, while cases against others are still pending at the Federal High Court in Lokoja. The NDLEA Commander in the state, Umar Yahuza, highlighted the seriousness of the drug problem in Kogi and Nigeria, stating that it has implications for security, economics, and the general well-being of citizens. He attributed the effects of armed robbery, kidnapping, banditry, rape, and other violent crimes to the use of illicit drugs.
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