Chinedum Treasure
National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Anambra State has expressed worry over growing number of women involved in drug abuse, saying one out of every four users of illicit drugs is a woman.
State Commandant, Dan Onyishi stated this on Thursday in Awka during launch of Operation Clean Anambra of Substance Abuse by Healthy Living With Nonye Soludo.
Delivering a seminar on “Role of Opinion leaders in fight against Drug/Substance Abuse ilIn Our Communities”, Onyishi regretted that Nigeria has 14.4 percent drug abuse prevalence rate, with a 40 percent projection by 2030.
He said, “According to recent statistics, Nigeria alone has 14.4 percent drug abuse prevalence rate and it was projected that by 2030 it will rise to 40 per cent if nothing is done.
“The major concern is that women, especially young girl are embracing substance abuse. One out of every four drug abuser is a women and one out of five will suffer substance abuse disorder.
“As key nurturers, moulders and caregivers in the society, women should not be involved in illicit drug abuse. As an agency, we are taking the sensitisation and enforcement into the communities because grassroots campaign is one sure way to address the menace of drug abuse.
“We’ll also collaborate with governor’s wife who is Chairperson, State Drug Control Committee in the state so that the 40% projections would not come to pass in the state.”
Wife of the State Governor, Dr Nonye Soludo lamented that substance abuse had become a pandemic in the society and required collective effort to tackle.
She blamed high rate of crimes, violence and health complications especially among youths to the menace, urging parents to be closer to their children to monitor their activities, listen and counsel them daily.
She said, “Watching our young, vibrant population held back and fighting for freedom from this avoidable danger brought tears to my eyes. That visit is one of the reasons we are here today
“Most disheartening is the fact that these dangerous substances have found their ways in schools and in the hands of children.
“The illicit drug economies are booming to the detriment of our society. The proliferation of synthetic psychoactive substances is another issue of crunch concern.
“Our homes are losing the sacredness of culture and moral traditions. Our communities have become havens for drug peddlers and manufacturers who use the element of fear and intimidation to silence the people who are willing to assist local authorities with valid information.
“Unemployment, deprivations, and social crisis have also played their part in heightening the danger. It is now time to take the bull by the horn and approach the problem with the seriousness that it deserves.
Earlier, Commissioner for Health, Dr Afam Obidike said that the campaign would save the youths from degenerating into a generational tragedy with drug addiction.
President-General, Anambra State Association of Town Union, Mr Titus Akpudo promised to take the message against substance abuse to the nooks and crannies of the state.
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