Kwara gov raises the alarm over drug abuse among youths

Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, has voiced serious concerns about the escalating rate of drug abuse among young people, warning that it poses a significant threat to public health, security, and the future well-being of the state's youth.

Speaking at a stakeholders conference on anti-substance abuse organized by the MTN Foundation, Governor AbdulRazaq highlighted drug abuse as a complex issue impacting health systems, social stability, and economic productivity. He emphasized that the problem extends beyond law enforcement, encompassing public health and developmental challenges.

“

Drug abuse is not merely a law enforcement issue; it is a public health concern, a developmental challenge, and a threat to the future of our youths.

To combat this trend, the Kwara State government has implemented a comprehensive strategy that includes prevention, treatment, rehabilitation, and enforcement. A key initiative is the introduction of mandatory drug testing for students in tertiary institutions across the state. The governor clarified that this policy aims for early detection and intervention, rather than punishment or stigmatization.

“

This policy is not intended to stigmatise or punish young people. Rather, it is a proactive measure aimed at early detection, timely intervention and the provision of appropriate support services.

Furthermore, progress is being made on a specialized rehabilitation center designed to treat substance use disorders. This facility is intended to serve not only residents of Kwara State but also those from neighboring North Central and South-West states, underscoring a regional approach to the crisis.

Stakeholders at the conference, including the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency and the MTN Foundation, called for strengthened collaboration. Olufolake AbdulRazaq, represented by the Commissioner for Social Development, Mariam Nna-Fatima, stressed the shared responsibility in tackling drug abuse, urging active participation from parents, schools, religious institutions, community leaders, development partners, and the private sector.

“

This challenge cannot be left to government alone. Parents, schools, religious institutions, community leaders, development partners and the private sector all have important roles to play in prevention, early intervention, treatment, rehabilitation and recovery.