Drugs which are designed for the
betterment of humanity, can also bring about detrimental consequences. There is
no argument that drugs are created to cure diseases and to alleviate the human
condition; however, people may misuse over-the-counter drugs, and this of course is what is called drug abuse. No doubt this has
become a social problem because it has afflicted families, the economy, and the community. Drug and
alcohol abuse among our youth
has become a major public health issue it has also transcended to our teens
Drug
abuse is the illicit, non-medical use of a limited number of substances, most
drugs have the properties of altering the mental state of a being in ways that
are considered by social norms and defined by statute to be inappropriate,
undesirable, harmful threatening to the life of the user and the society at
large. Alcohol, heroin, cocaine, opium, and marijuana, are some of the drugs
abused.
Unarguably, Drug abuse has led
to a detrimental impact on the society. It has led to an increase in the crime
rate. Addicts resort to crime to pay for their drugs. Drugs remove inhibition
and impair judgment, egging one to commit offenses. Incidences of “eve-teasing”, group clashes, assault,
and impulsive murders increase with drug abuse. Apart from affecting financial
stability, addiction increases conflicts and causes untold emotional pain for
every member of the family. Surprisingly,
these drug users are within the age group of 16 years and above,
therefore, the
loss in terms of human potential is incalculable. The damage to their physical, psychological,
moral, and intellectual growth then
becomes very high.
Drug
abuse has been a pandemic to all concerned stakeholders, government,
researchers, and society as a whole. It has greatly affected the social,
economic, and political progress and development of our nation. Substance addiction continues
to be the principal source of establishing anti-social behavior associated with
health hazards among our
young ones today.
Even
with the dangers or consequences associated with it, youth
continuously take the drugs to their detriment. Drug abuse has grown and
affecting almost every country in the world. The unprecedented increase in drug abuse has now created a serious problem
ranging from the formation of illegal groups to cause havoc, an increase in
violence, cultism, and the creation of related groups vulnerable to committing crimes
and undermining the progress and development of society
Surprisingly, in recent years,
the rate of
drug abuse among our youth has now taken a new dimension as they are no longer confined
to traditional substances but now to a higher level of unimaginable and
unconventional substances. This shift goes beyond
the ordinary, presenting a complex challenge that demands urgent attention. The
alarming surge in the use of these
unconventional substances among the youth has now raised serious concerns
within the established
authority (NDLEA)
A recent story published by many national newspapers last
week has it that Youth now try to get intoxicated by taking Lizard dung,
camel urine, Lipton soaked in gin, and mentholated spirits mixed with soft
drinks, they inhale toilet fumes, gutter dirt, and 10-day-old human Urine.
Another recent story from Sierra Leone also reports that a new drug is
wreaking havoc within the country, turning many of its youngsters into
“zombies” Some of these drugs were said to be made from human bone fragments.
No doubt, the prevalence of drug abuse
in Nigeria and the negative impact on public health and safety necessitate that
all hands be on deck to curtail the challenge in our country.
The everyday campaign led by the NDLEA
to enhance the well-being and safety of our nation. This is particularly
crucial for the youth, who represent the future leaders of our country
In this
critical juncture, schools, communities, voluntary organizations, youth bodies,
and religious institutions must rally together and launch a collective effort
against the menace of drug abuse. The gravity of the situation necessitates a
united front to wage a war on this societal challenge. Each stakeholder holds a
pivotal role in shaping a resilient and drug-free environment. By standing up
against drug abuse, we pave the way for a healthier and safer community,
fostering a future where individuals can thrive without the shackles of
substance misuse. It is an opportune moment for concerted action, as the
collective endeavors of these diverse entities will undoubtedly contribute to
building a society that prioritizes the well-being and prospects of its
citizens, particularly the younger generation.
Particularly,
the National Youth Council of Nigeria, as the constituted youth body, holds a
significant role in intensifying its efforts to revive the younger generation
and liberate them from the clutches of drug abuse.
While I
recognize the body’s already established active campaign against drug abuse, yet,
there is an urgent need for them to be persistent and escalate their efforts.
While their past initiatives have laid a foundation, the battle against drug
abuse demands continuous commitment and heightened actions. Through sustained
campaigns and additional endeavors, the council can further expand its positive
impact on the younger generation. Consistency and heightened efforts will not
only reaffirm their dedication to combating drug abuse but also make
substantial contributions to fostering a safer and healthier environment for
the youth.
Kehinde Ademuyiwa
No comments:
Post a Comment