1 month ago
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The House of Representatives Committee on Narcotics Drugs has raised concerns over the alarming rate of drug abuse among youths and women in the North Central region of Nigeria.
The committee has called on stakeholders in the region to take urgent and proactive steps to tackle the growing menace, which they described as a threat to societal stability.
Chairman of the committee, Abass Adigun, expressed his concern during the opening session of a two-day North Central National Sensitisation Workshop on Narcotics Drugs in Lafia, Nasarawa State, on Wednesday.
He explained that the House of Representatives embarked on the sensitisation campaign due to the devastating effects of drug abuse on society, especially on the region’s vulnerable youth and women.
“This workshop is an essential step towards addressing an issue that affects not just individuals but the family, the community, and the nation as a whole.
“The effects of narcotics and other harmful substances lead to physical and mental health consequences, disrupt education, and increase the risk of violence and crime in our communities,” Adigun said.
According to him, the workshop aims to equip stakeholders with the necessary tools to combat and prevent drug abuse.
He noted that youths are often exposed to peer pressure, while women face societal challenges that make them susceptible to drug abuse.
He said, “Today, we will discuss the causes of drug abuse, explore prevention strategies, and learn about resources available for those in need of support. Prevention is a shared responsibility, and together, we can create an environment that empowers our youths and women to make healthy choices and stay away from drugs.”
Adigun thanked Nasarawa State Governor Abdullahi Sule and his wife, Silifat Abdullahi-Sule, for their support in ensuring the success of the workshop.
He reiterated the House of Representatives’ commitment to supporting the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency and state governments in their fight against drug abuse across the country.
Governor Abdullahi Sule, in his remarks, commended the House Committee for its efforts in combating drug abuse. He stressed that the use of narcotics like marijuana and cocaine contributes to crime, banditry, kidnapping, and terrorism.
