ASABA/Nigeria: Experts in the prevention of drug abuse in Delta State, have decried the rising trend of substance abuse especially among the youths, describing the problem as a new form of humanitarian crises in the country.
They made the observation in Asaba, the Delta State capital, during an event organized by the State Drug Control Committee, in Partnership with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, NDLEA.
The theme of the event was ‘Addressing Drugs Challenges in Health and Humanitarian Crisis.’
A common observation at the occasion was the rising trend of substance abuse such as the injection and inhaling of toxic materials, added to conventional abuse of addictive items like alcohol, cannabis sativa and cigarettes.
Delta State Commander, National Drug Law Enforcement Agency NDLEA, John Tunde, gave an overview of actions at preventing substance abuse in the state.
“From January to date, 104 (one hundred and four) suspects were arrested. We have 45 (forty five) convictions or thereabout. We have rehabilitated a lot of people that are dependent on drug.”
The State Commissioner for Health Dr. Mordi Ononye, and the Chairman of the State Drug Control Committee Mrs. Helen Orie, spoke on measures by the government aimed at tackling the menace.
“Training of over 500 (five hundred secondary school teachers and establishment of drug free clubs.”
“We have enjoyed full support from the office of the Executive Governor of the State.”
A pharmacist, Prof. Ray Ozolua, in a lecture identified peer pressure, single parenting and personal traits as causative factors in abuse and substance dependence, while recommending the establishment of special courts and rehabilitation centers as some approaches at address the problem.
“We should preach about good family setting. Making drugs and substance abuse part of curriculum at schools.”
Representatives of the Nigeria police, the Army, correctional services and pharmacist council, gave good will messages targeted at the youths especially students from selected institutions who participated at the event.
