Obasanjo cautions African youths against drug abuse

The Former President of Nigeria, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo has cautioned African youths to avoid drug abuse, saying it is a destructive habit that can cut lives short.

According to the Diaspora Digital Media (DDM), Obasanjo, while speaking at the second edition of the Fly Above The High sensitisation programme on drug abuse, organized by the Recovery Advocacy Network at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library, Abeokuta on Saturday, stated the increasing rate of drug abuse across sub-Saharan Africa.

The former president stated that “Africa’s drug problem goes beyond just being a transit point for drugs from Latin America, but the continent is struggling with its own growing drug use issue that’s gotten worse over the last ten years.”

Obasanjo encouraged people struggling with addiction to be open about their issues and seek help. He warned that hiding their struggles could lead to severe consequences, including death.

In addition, Obasanjo shared his experience as Chairman of the West African Drug Commission, a Kofi Annan Foundation initiative, stating the commission’s disturbing findings.

He said “we traveled throughout West Africa thinking we were free from the drug trade that comes from Latin America and mostly affects North America and Europe.

“But to our great dismay and distress, we discovered that West Africa had unfortunately become a hub for drug consumption, with severe consequences.”

“That was over 10 years ago, and things have only gotten worse. What’s happening in West Africa is happening all over Africa,” he stated.

Obasanjo, while sharing his experience, opened up about his cousin’s heartbreaking struggle with drug addiction, which unfortunately ended in a tragic loss, despite numerous rehab attempts..

“Obasanjo emphasized that addiction is a disease that can be managed, not cured. He advises people struggling with addiction to be open about it and seek help before it’s too late.

Furthermore, the ex-president emphasized the importance of societal support for individuals struggling with addiction, noting that a simple prayer can help in their recovery.

Need for stronger advocacy against drug abuse

The President of the Recovery Advocacy Network, Dr. Kunle Adesina, highlighted the urgent need for enhanced campaigns to address the growing issue of drug and substance abuse.

Dr. Adesina stated that “the goal of the event is to educate young people about the dangers of drugs, stressing that even seemingly harmless substances can have disastrous consequences.”

“A recent report revealed staggering statistics, indicating that 14.3 million Nigerians have used some form of substance in the last six months, with a significant proportion of female users. This has prompted a call for enhanced legislative measures and collective efforts to combat drug abuse,” Adesina emphasized.

Also, a mental health expert, Dr. Sam Abah, while giving his lecture, titled:”Rewired for Dependency,” revealed the shocking truth about how drugs wreck the brain. He warned that addiction can cause lasting damage, putting users’ lives at risk.

Abah strongly advised individuals to go away from drug use, emphasizing that it can damage their future prospects. He also urged those already struggling with addiction to seek help immediately.

The Vice President of the Recovery Advocacy Network, Dr. Abubakar Salami, a former drug addict turned advocate, shared his incredible journey of overcoming addiction, proving that with faith and determination, anyone can turn their life around.

Salami credited God for helping him overcome his addiction. He urged others struggling with drugs to turn to their faith and stay committed to breaking free.

The event drew to a close with a call to action, as attendees, experts, and advocates united in their demand for increased community involvement, more stringent laws, and comprehensive support systems for individuals seeking to overcome addiction.

Drug abuse in Africa

Drug abuse is a pervasive and devastating issue affecting millions of individuals, families, and communities across Africa, with the continent experiencing a significant increase in drug use and addiction in recent years.

According to alarming statistics, 14.3 million Nigerians alone have used some form of substance in the last six months, with one in five users being female.

The consequences of drug abuse in Africa are far-reaching, causing severe damage to the brain, ruining relationships, and jeopardizing one’s future, as well as perpetuating poverty, crime, and social inequality.

The African Union and various national governments have acknowledged the urgency of the issue, emphasizing the need for intensified anti-drug campaigns, community-based initiatives, and evidence-based treatment programs.

By understanding the risks associated with psychoactive substances, recognizing the signs of addiction, and seeking help when needed, Africans can make informed choices and break free from the grip of addiction.

Ultimately, collective efforts are necessary to combat drug abuse in Africa, support those affected, and create a society where individuals struggling with addiction receive the care and support they need to recover and reclaim their lives.

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