Abuja: Some public health experts have expressed concern over the rising cases of youths’ involvement in drug abuse, urging the media to prioritise awareness to combat the problem. The experts bared their minds during a one-day media sensitisation programme organised by the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare in collaboration with Youth Rise, a non-governmental organisation (NGO) on Tuesday in Abuja. The theme of the event is, ‘Public Health Approach to Drug Control Response in Nigeria.”
According to Voice of Nigeria, Mr. Henry Okiwu of Youth Rise emphasized that the escalating drug abuse crisis required a comprehensive approach integrating awareness, education, and community involvement to safeguard the well-being and future of Nigerian youths. “The statistics are alarming, with over three million young Nigerians involved in substance abuse. This crisis devastates families and poses significant risks to national security, economic development, and social cohesion,” Okiwu stated.
Dr. Chukwuma Any
aike, Director of Public Health at the Federal Ministry of Health, advocated for a public health-oriented approach to drug control in Nigeria. Anyaike highlighted the urgent need for a comprehensive legal framework to address drug use through a balanced, evidence-based strategy. He pointed out the significant health implications, particularly for vulnerable groups, including women and individuals with substance use disorders.
“The current focus on supply reduction has resulted in inadequate access to treatment and prevention services, contributing to public health challenges such as increased rates of HIV, TB, and hepatitis among people who inject drugs,” he said. Anyaike encouraged Nigeria to align with international frameworks such as the United Nations General Assembly Special Session (UNGASS) 2016 and the African Union Plan of Action, while adopting the World Health Organisation’s public health approach.
Dr. Ganiyu Jamiyu, Chief Consultant Epidemiologist at the Federal Ministry of Health, acknowledged d
rug abuse as a global issue affecting various sectors, including music, academia, athletics, and communities impacted by insecurity. Jamiyu presented the ministry’s proposed dual approach, suggesting that drug users be treated as patients rather than criminals, while drug suppliers should face aggressive prosecution.
Jamiyu also called for harsher penalties for drug suppliers, proposing potential life imprisonment as a deterrent against the illegal drug trade. However, he highlighted challenges in enforcement due to systemic corruption, which allows contraband to pass through borders undetected. This health-centred framework aims to reduce stigma and encourage individuals struggling with substance abuse to seek help without fear of legal repercussions.
Mr. Nonso Maduka, a Consultant with YouthRise Nigeria, stressed the importance of developing a comprehensive legal framework focused on health rather than punishment to better protect individuals, families, and communities. Maduka underscored the workshop’s c
ore purpose: advocating for a shift from punitive to health-centred approaches in drug policy, which aims to improve public health outcomes and support affected individuals and communities.
Maduka advocated for an evidence-based approach to drug issues that balances criminal justice with health-focused interventions, such as drug demand reduction, harm reduction, and access to medications. “Understanding underlying causes, such as pain management needs and rural challenges, is essential for developing effective, compassionate, and comprehensive responses that prioritise public health alongside enforcement,” he said.