NAFDAC Director General Raises Alarm: 14.3 Million Nigerians Engage in Drug Abuse
The Director-General of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), Professor Mojisola Adeyeye, has raised concerns over the alarming rate of drug abuse in Nigeria, revealing that approximately 14.3 million Nigerians are affected.
Professor Adeyeye made this disclosure during the inaugural ceremony of the agency’s youth program, “Catch Them Young,” held at Government Secondary School, Rumuokwuta, Port Harcourt, on Wednesday.
According to her, research indicates that one in four high-risk drug users has been arrested for drug-related offenses. These arrests include 73% for drug possession, 12% for theft, 5% for sex work, 4% for burglary, and 2% for shoplifting.
“This data only reflects reported arrests,” Professor Adeyeye emphasized. “Considering the high number of unreported crimes, the true extent of the drug abuse problem is likely much larger.”
She highlighted the devastating impact of drug abuse on families, society, and the nation’s socio-economic development.
“This program is not intended to scare anyone,” Professor Adeyeye assured the students. “It aims to foster open and honest discussions about illicit drug use, including alcohol consumption, and empower you to make informed decisions.”
Mr. Onogwu Emmanuel, the State Coordinator of NAFDAC in Rivers State, explained the rationale behind focusing the sensitization and capacity-building program on secondary schools. He emphasized that secondary school students are particularly vulnerable and that engaging the youth, as future leaders, is crucial in preventing drug abuse.
The pilot phase of the project involves two schools from each of the state’s three senatorial zones.
Gladys Iheumamme, the school principal, commended NAFDAC for this vital initiative and urged the agency to sustain the program to safeguard the future of Nigerian youth.
Drug abuse refers to the harmful or excessive use of substances such as prescription drugs, alcohol, or illegal drugs. It can have severe consequences, including addiction, organ damage, and cognitive impairment.
