Commissioner of Police in Lagos State, Adegoke Fayoade has ascribed the driving drug use among young people to Peer pressure, suggesting that a mix of strategies, especially awareness on the dangers of the habit would help to end such habit.
He said this during a townhall meeting held by the Nigeria Police Force, Area C Command, Surulere.
Reporter: Ope Makinde
A recent update from the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), indicates that a staggering 14.3 million Nigerians have fallen victim to drug addiction.
Despite ongoing crackdowns by security agencies, the problem persists, with young Nigerians increasingly turning to drugs that can lead to devastating health consequences, including lung and heart disease, stroke, cancer, dental and mental health issues, and the destruction of nerve cells.
Speaking at the event themed, “The Prison Called Illicit Use of Drugs: The Way Out,” Fayoade strongly advised parents and teachers to closely monitor their wards to ensure they do not fall victim to the consequences of drug abuse.
“Parents and teachers must remain vigilant and keep a close eye on their children to protect them from the dangers of drug abuse,” he advised.
Area Commander, Nigerian Police Command Area C Surulere Lagos, ACP Oladuni Ayoola, who facilitated the event, highlighted drug use as a major impediment to societal growth, facilitating crime.
For those already addicted to drugs, Assistant Superintendent of Narcotics 2 NDLEA, Oluwakemi Afolabi, offered assurances of an effective rehabilitation system to reform addicts and reintegrate them into society.
Several attendees, including students, security officials, teachers, and a representative of the Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria, Oju Elegba Ketu, Fatai Faud, praised the meeting and pledged to follow up on the strategies to combat drug abuse.
“This meeting has provided valuable insights and strategies to address the drug abuse problem,” Faud commented. “We will ensure these efforts are sustained.”
