Experts Raise Alarm Over Rising Drug Abuse Among Youths

By Diafa Doubra,

Health experts have expressed deep concern over the growing rate of drug abuse among Nigerian youths, warning that the trend poses a serious threat to public health and national development.

Speaking at a recent forum in Lagos, medical professionals and social workers revealed that more young people are turning to hard substances, including opioids, tramadol, and methamphetamine, largely due to peer pressure, unemployment, and poor parental guidance.

They stressed that the consequences are already visible, with increasing cases of mental health breakdown, violent behaviour, and school dropouts. The experts called on government and stakeholders to step up awareness campaigns, strengthen rehabilitation centres, and enforce stricter drug control policies.

According to them, without urgent intervention, the country risks losing a large portion of its productive population to substance abuse.