Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State has warned that the growing problem of substance abuse is not only a health concern but also a serious threat to national development, security, education, and social stability.
He made the remark through the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, while delivering a keynote address at a stakeholders’ conference organised by the MTN Foundation in Enugu to mark the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.
The governor stressed that drug abuse has far-reaching consequences that go beyond individuals, affecting families, communities, institutions, and the broader economy. According to him, addressing the menace requires coordinated action across all sectors of society, including government, parents, schools, religious bodies, security agencies, civil society, development partners, and the private sector.
He described substance abuse as a multi-dimensional challenge, noting that it cuts across health, education, development, and security concerns. He added that only a unified and sustained response can effectively curb its spread.
Mbah highlighted that his administration has placed strong emphasis on youth empowerment, education, healthcare, and human capital development as preventive measures against drug abuse. He pointed to the construction of 267 Smart Green Schools across wards in the state as part of efforts to equip young people with relevant skills, knowledge, and values for the future.
He also referenced ongoing investments in Type-2 primary healthcare centres across Enugu State, saying they are designed to improve access to quality healthcare services, including mental health and psychosocial support.
According to him, prevention remains the most effective approach, arguing that young people who are properly educated, engaged, and empowered are less likely to fall into substance abuse.
The governor further called for greater compassion toward individuals struggling with addiction, urging society to focus more on rehabilitation and reintegration rather than stigma and condemnation. He maintained that many affected persons need medical care, counselling, and structured support systems to recover successfully.
Also speaking at the event, the Executive Director of MTN Foundation, Mrs Odunayo Sanya, said the organisation launched its Anti-Substance Abuse Programme in 2019 to reduce the incidence of drug use among young people.
She noted that substance abuse often destroys promising futures, adding that individuals who fall into drug use gradually lose discipline, integrity, and direction, while families are left to bear the consequences.
Sanya revealed that the foundation plans to reach over 30,000 additional students this year through awareness campaigns, school-based interventions, and educational competitions aimed at prevention.
Drug Abuse Endangering Nigeria’s Security, Future — Mbah
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