The Director of the Directorate of State Services (DSS) in Abia, Salami Ajege, has issued a stern warning to youths about the dangers of drug abuse, emphasizing its harmful impact on individuals and society. Speaking at a seminar in Umuahia, Ajege highlighted the urgent need for young people to avoid substance abuse.
The seminar, organized by concerned resident Chimezirim Nnubia, centered on the theme, “The Prevalence of Drug Abuse and Its Consequential Threat to Society.” Ajege, represented by DSS officer Ikechukwu Obasi, stated that drugs are a major factor in youth-related crimes, but using drugs as an excuse for criminal behavior would not absolve individuals of responsibility.
Ajege stressed that youths must steer clear of drugs to protect Nigeria’s future workforce. He expressed disappointment at the low attendance of women at the seminar, urging more female participation in such events, as drug abuse affects both genders.
Organizer Chimezirim Nnubia highlighted the urgency of addressing youth drug abuse, noting that many commonly abused substances pose severe health risks and can be fatal. He called for collective action to combat this issue.
Binta Anomoris, Deputy State Commander of the Nigerian Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), warned participants about the life-destroying effects of drug abuse. She noted that curiosity and peer pressure often lead youths to drugs, but emphasized that these factors do not justify drug use.
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Anomoris highlighted the devastating impact of drug abuse on families and communities, urging youths to avoid drugs to prevent these negative outcomes. She cautioned that drugs ultimately control the user, reinforcing the need for abstinence.
Ndubuisi Anozie, Deputy Director of Programmes at the National Orientation Agency’s Abia Office, echoed these sentiments, stating that drug abuse has ruined the lives of many promising individuals. He encouraged youths to consider the future they wish to leave for their children—a future free of drugs.
This seminar serves as a critical reminder of the pervasive and destructive nature of drug abuse, and the collective effort needed to combat it.
