In order to address the growing problem of drug abuse and addiction in communities to the lowest possible level, the LGRhythms Foundations and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) have advocated for expanded partnership.
The call was made during the 2024 LG Foundation eko Akete Connect charity walk in Lagos, which aims to combat drug consumption. This was an attempt to bring attention to the urgent problems and use a group effort to address them.
The general secretary of the LGRhythms Foundation, Mr. Adewunmi Akinfenwa, addressed the audience and underlined the impact of celebrities on the behaviour of young people, as well as the concerning rate at which young people are succumbing to drug usage and addiction.
He went on to say that the nation cannot continue along this route of the value system’s daily erosion and that increased cooperation in addressing this issue is necessary.
Akinfenwa emphasised that although the problem might not be totally resolved, a group effort might minimise the trend. He also suggested that as celebrities are viewed as reflections of society, they should exemplify the qualities that assist in educating the next generation.
Elizabeth Obioma, a member of the foundation’s presidential advisory board, also underlined the significance of raising awareness regarding prescription drug addiction, pointing out that in addition to hard drugs and illegal substances, prescription medications are being misused in significant quantities.
The NDLEA, Lagos Command’s assistant supervisor of Narcotics, Fatola Lateefat, emphasised the need of working together to prevent drug and substance abuse and addiction, which have grown to be a concerning worldwide threat.
Lateefat further underscored the urgency of addressing the issues through education,community engagement, sensitisation, advocacy and strigent enforcement of drug regulations.
She stated that in order to save Nigerian kids from the devastation that drug addiction brings, a united effort from all facets of society is necessary. She claims that the NDLEA cannot address it on its own and that education is therefore necessary, especially in schools where drug-free groups and preventive education can be established.
Oluwafemi Silas, the executive director of the Stampout Drug Abuse Initiative, advocates for stronger laws from the government to limit drug availability, particularly for minors.
He went on to say that since the home is the first institution where children learn morals, parents should raise their kids well.
