The House of Representatives Committee on Narcotics Drugs has expressed concerns about the rising levels of drug abuse affecting young people and women in the North Central region of Nigeria. The committee has urged stakeholders in the area to take immediate action to address this pressing issue, which they see as a threat to the stability of society.
During a two-day North Central National Sensitisation Workshop on Narcotics Drugs in Lafia, Nasarawa State, the committee’s chairman, Abass Adigun, highlighted the detrimental impact of drug abuse on society, particularly on vulnerable youth and women in the region. Adigun emphasized the need for collective efforts to combat the devastating effects of drug abuse, which include physical and mental health problems, educational disruptions, and increased risks of violence and crime within communities.
The workshop was described as a crucial step in equipping stakeholders with the necessary tools to tackle and prevent drug abuse. Adigun pointed out that peer pressure often exposes youths to drug abuse, while societal challenges make women more vulnerable to such practices. He emphasized the importance of discussing the root causes of drug abuse, implementing prevention strategies, and providing support resources to those in need.
Adigun expressed gratitude to Nasarawa State Governor Abdullahi Sule and his wife, Silifat Abdullahi-Sule, for their support in making the workshop successful. He also reaffirmed the House of Representatives’ commitment to assisting the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency and state governments in the fight against drug abuse nationwide.
Governor Abdullahi Sule commended the House Committee for its anti-drug abuse efforts, highlighting the negative impact of narcotics like marijuana and cocaine on crime rates, including banditry, kidnapping, and terrorism.