Former President Olusegun Obasanjo cautions Nigerian youths against drug abuse, emphasizing its threat to their future and the nation’s progress.
Ex-President Olusegun Obasanjo has urged African youth to steer clear of drug abuse, calling it a harmful behavior that can prematurely end lives.
At the second edition of the Fly Above The High sensitization program on drug abuse, hosted by the Recovery Advocacy Network at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library in Abeokuta, Obasanjo emphasized the escalating threat posed by drug consumption throughout sub-Saharan Africa.
Obasanjo stated on Saturday that contrary to the idea that Africa was merely a transit hub for drugs from Latin America, drug consumption within Africa has become a significant problem and has worsened over the past decade.
The former president encouraged individuals facing addiction not to hide their struggles, but rather to seek assistance in order to avoid the devastating effects of drug abuse, such as premature death.
Obasanjo shared his experiences as the Chairman of the West African Drug Commission, an initiative by the Kofi Annan Foundation. He highlighted their findings, which exposed a troubling reality:
We traveled around West Africa under the impression that we were free from drugs, which predominantly originate in Latin America and make their way to North America and Europe.
However, to our disappointment and distress, we discovered that West Africa had unfortunately become a major hub for problematic drug consumption.
“That happened over a decade ago, and the situation has deteriorated since then. What holds true for West Africa is also relevant to all other regions of Africa,” he stated.
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Obasanjo shared a personal story about the heartbreaking loss of a cousin who passed away due to drug-related issues, despite undergoing several rehabilitation attempts.
“Addiction is a type of illness. While some illnesses cannot be cured, they can be managed effectively. People struggling with addiction shouldn’t conceal it; instead, they should seek assistance before it’s too late,” he suggested.
The former president encouraged the public to assist individuals struggling with addiction, noting that “a prayer for them could be a pivotal moment.”
Dr. Kunle Adesina, President of the Recovery Advocacy Network, stressed the importance of strengthening campaigns against drug and substance abuse.
“The main purpose of this event, as Adesina stated, is to inform young individuals about the dangers associated with drug use. Regardless of how harmless they might appear, psychoactive substances can have devastating consequences. Emphasizing prevention is crucial.”
He disclosed concerning statistics, highlighting that 14.3 million Nigerians have used some type of substance in the past six months, with one out of every five users being female. He urged for stronger legislation and collective responsibility in combating drug abuse.
During his lecture, “Rewired for Dependency: How Drug Use Affects the Brain,” mental health expert Dr. Sam Abah explored the effects of drugs on brain function. He warned that addiction causes significant harm to the brain, putting individuals’ lives at serious risk.
“Abah advised, ‘Avoid drugs to preserve the promising future you have. If you’ve already begun using them, it’s important to stop now and seek help.'”
Dr. Abubakar Salami, Vice President of the Recovery Advocacy Network and a former drug addict, shared his inspiring journey of overcoming addiction through faith and determination.
“Salami encouraged those struggling with drug addiction to seek divine guidance and determination, saying, ‘God helped me turn a new leaf. Embrace faith and be resolute in freeing yourself from its grip.'”
The event ended with fresh appeals for community involvement, more robust legislation, and steadfast support for individuals striving to break free from addiction.
