T-Plan Warns About Rising Drug Addiction Among Youths

ADVERTISEMENT

By Gloria Ikibah

A group under the aegis of T-Plan National Palliative (T-Plan) has raised concerns about the increasing drug addiction problem among Nigerian youths and housewives.

The organisation is also worried by the growing number of people struggling with substance abuse across the country.

The National Project Coordinator for Financial Inclusion, Media, and Palliative, Dr. Aminu Bizi, revealed in Abuja that even drug dealers confirm the seriousness of the issue.

According to him, many young people and housewives are becoming addicted to drugs, often without their families knowing.

To tackle this crisis, T-Plan is setting up a Drug Rehabilitation Committee at both zonal and state levels, with emphasis on the need for immediate action to stop young people from being used by politicians while under the influence of drugs.

Rather than punish addicts, he called for a supportive and rehabilitative approach to help them recover.

He said: “We must ensure that our youths are no longer used as political pawns while under the influence of drugs. It is a battle we can win together.

“We do not see drug addicts as enemies. Instead, we must embrace them and provide the necessary support to help them recover”.

He warned that drug abuse was a key driver of violent crime, with many offenders committing shocking acts under the influence of narcotics, and highlighted the alarming increase in drug use among women and young girls.

He therefore stressed that parental vigilance was crucial and urged religious leaders, educators, and civil society organisations to join forces in the fight against drug abuse.

“People kill for as little as 5,000 naira to sustain their drug habits. This is a failure of society – politicians, families, and all of us included.

“Many housewives and daughters are struggling with drug addiction. Parents often go to work without realising the crisis happening within their own homes.

“This is not just about the government. It is about all of us coming together. We need Nigerians from all walks of life to support this initiative. Schools, universities, and communities must work hand in hand to tackle this growing problem,” Bizi stated.

He further linked drug addiction to the nation’s insecurity, pointing out that many criminals operate under the influence of substances.

T-Plan thereafter reiterated its commitment to driving solutions focused on rehabilitation, awareness, and collective action to create a safer, healthier society.

“No politician can feel safe in their hometowns anymore because unemployed, drug-addicted youths pose a real security threat,” he added.