President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has expressed concern about the barriers faced by drug users in accessing healthcare and social services, which further exacerbate their drug-related issues.
He made the call yesterday at an event to mark the United Nations International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking at the Presidential Villa.
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The president who was represented by the secretary to the government of the federation, George Akume stressed the urgent need to remove social and structural stigmas that hinder access to support and services for people who use drugs.
Tinubu highlighted the significance of observing this day, which was designated by the United Nations General Assembly in 1987, to strengthen international cooperation and take action against drug abuse.
Under the theme “People First: Stop Stigma and Discrimination, Strengthen Prevention,” President Tinubu emphasized the importance of prioritizing the well-being and dignity of individuals affected by drug abuse.
He called for effective prevention and treatment interventions, particularly for vulnerable populations such as women, young people, and those living in marginalized environments.
He said, “We could not agree less with the importance of this theme now that the most vulnerable population, especially women, young people, people living in marginalized environments, high-risk drug users, people displaced by armed conflicts or natural disasters and people in rural settings, are exposed to stigma, discrimination and exclusion from mainstream opportunities.
“These groups often face barriers in accessing the health care and social services within the society in addressing their drug use problems.”
Tinubu urged for increased education and awareness about the dangers of drug abuse while emphasizing the importance of empowering youth with the necessary knowledge and skills to make informed decisions.
On his part, the chairman and chief executive officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brigadier General Buba Marwa (rtd), emphasised the need for collective action to address substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking.
Marwa highlighted the significance of this years’ theme, stating, “This theme underscores the need to place human beings at the centre of our efforts to address drug-related challenges and promote a more compassionate and inclusive approach.”
He stressed the importance of breaking down barriers that prevent individuals from seeking help and fostering an environment where they feel safe, respected, and encouraged to access necessary treatments and interventions.
The chairman emphasised the detrimental impact of stigma and discrimination faced by individuals affected by drug abuse, stating, “Our prejudices hinder their access to healthcare, employment, and social support systems.”
He said, “In the past 29 months, the NDLEA has apprehended 31,675 drug offenders, including 35 barons, resulting in 5,147 individuals receiving jail terms. Over 6,252 tons of illicit drugs have been seized during this period.”
Marwa also highlighted the NDLEA’s efforts in prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation.
He mentioned the establishment of a Drug Abuse Call Centre with a 24/7 toll-free helpline manned by professionals who provide support to individuals and their families.
The agency has 34 counselling and rehabilitation centres across its commands, offering psychosocial interventions and reintegration programmes for drug users.
Additionally, in partnership with the Federal Ministry of Health, the NDLEA is implementing harm reduction interventions and medication-assisted treatment for opioid users.
The chairman emphasised the need for collective effort in the fight against drugs, involving all segments of society, including parents, teachers, religious leaders, civil society organisations, and the media.
The speaker of the House of Representatives, Hon. Tajudeen Abbas stressed the need for collaborative action to combat drug-related challenges and promote a drug-free world.
Abbas, who was represented by the deputy speaker, Hon Ben Kalu , called for sustained efforts beyond the event, urging the society to provide support and encouragement to those battling drug addiction.
Citing the global impact of drug abuse, the speaker referred to the 2022 World Drug Report, which revealed a significant increase in drug use worldwide. Particularly concerning was the higher prevalence of drug use among young people in Nigeria and many other countries.
The speaker emphasised the immense burden drug abuse and illicit drug trafficking pose to society, with criminal offences such as robbery and sexual abuse directly linked to drug abuse.
In a call to action, the speaker urged the NDLEA, the police, and other stakeholders to allocate more resources to sensitisation programmes aimed at raising awareness, particularly in schools and rural communities across the nation.