The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has revealed that approximately 14 million Nigerians are involved in drug abuse, highlighting a growing crisis in the country.
This figure aligns with recent findings by the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), which stated that around 14.3 million Nigerians abuse drugs, with one in four high-risk users having been arrested for drug-related offenses.
The Ondo State NDLEA Deputy Commander, Yetunde Joyifous, emphasized the vulnerability of youths, especially secondary school students, to drug addiction. She stated that addressing the crisis requires collective efforts from community stakeholders to support law enforcement in combating drug abuse.
During a sensitization event organized by Oijefon Youth for secondary schools in Ile Oluji/Oke-Igbo, she urged communities to actively participate in preventive measures.
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Meanwhile, NAFDAC’s Director-General, Mojisola Adeyeye, noted that drug addiction stems from both illicit substances and prescription medication abuse. She warned that drug abuse negatively impacts families, society, and Nigeria’s socio-economic development.
To counter the problem, NAFDAC launched a nationwide initiative, “Catch Them Young,” aimed at educating students about the dangers of substance abuse.
Concerning the survey report, Nigerians have been drawn into debate, with many claiming the figures are not correct.
Below are some reactions from Nigerians on X.com
Rex Chocolate (@RexChibuzo_)
“This numbers are completely wrong. Everyone seems to be getting numbers from thin air…… including govt agencies”
Celebrity Tailor (@Mrklassiq_)
“14 million is just Ogun state though”
OgaHANS 🇳🇬 (@OgaHans)
“Any system where illicit drugs thrive unhindered, the agencies themselves are 100% culpable. Know this and be at rest Nwanne.”
Dave (@Giant_Slayyer)
“This number is not correct. It should be more. All the youths in my area are always high on something”
SizZzle. 😎🇳🇬 (@n6oflife6)
“People are Unemployed & Stressed out.”
Emmanuel (@EmmyzyL2003)
“14 million ?? Make dem go recount well, I stay in a little town and every little corner you turn to there’s someone or a group of people smoking w**d. About 80% of Yahoo Boys are drug addicts imo”
RUGGED OG (@DarlingtonN3)
“If you go to NDLEA offices you’d be surprised at the smell of Canadian loud oozing from the boss offices 😁😁😁”
Godson (@Godsongizze)
“NDLEA is the one selling the drugs obviously, if not Naira Marley won’t be their ambassador”
Yahaya Abdulaziz (@Man_Zagga)
“9 percent of them are NDLEA workers”
