- Drug abuse in Nigeria is affecting nearly 50 per cent of out-of-school children, according to NAS.
- The campaign in Abeokuta saw NAS and NDLEA educate the public about the dangers of Tramadol, marijuana, codeine, and heroin.
- Economic hardship, unemployment, and broken homes were identified as key drivers of drug abuse among Nigerian youths.
- The global march, themed Louder Together, highlighted the need for policies against drug abuse and homelessness.
The National Association of Seadogs (NAS) has partnered with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) to intensify the fight against drug abuse in Nigeria.
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The collaboration was showcased during a global march in Abeokuta, tagged Louder Together: Campaign Against Drug Abuse and Homelessness.
Speaking during the event, Capoon Ash Montana Deck, Ganiyu Omitogun, stressed that drug abuse has become a major threat to the future of Nigerian children.
He revealed that about 50% of children who are school dropouts in the country are already involved in substance use, ranging from Tramadol to marijuana, codeine, and heroin.
Omitogun noted that many young people turn to drugs as a form of escape from challenges linked to broken homes, unemployment, and lack of quality education.
He urged parents to build peaceful homes and guide their children properly, warning that drug abuse destroys not only health but also opportunities for the future.
The campaign, which saw NAS members march through major areas of Abeokuta including Kuto, Stadium, Iwe-Iroyin, Phone Tarmac, Omida, and Sapon, was carried out in collaboration with the NDLEA.
The group distributed information and held sensitization sessions to highlight the dangers of drug abuse.
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Omitogun explained that the global nature of the march demonstrated the association’s commitment to humanitarian causes. “This is not just about Abeokuta or Nigeria alone,” he said. “Our branches worldwide are involved in raising awareness against drug abuse because the problem is affecting young people everywhere.”
The NAS called on President Bola Tinubu’s administration to urgently put in place stronger policies to combat the menace of drug abuse and homelessness, stressing that government and individuals must work together to save the future of Nigerian youths.
