Engr. Habu Gumel, President of Commonwealth Games Nigeria, has raised alarm over the escalating drug use and abuse among youths, warning that without immediate action, communities may face devastating consequences.
He made declaration during a commemorating Commonwealth Day held on at the Nigeria Olympic Committee (NOC) Sports Ground in Amuwo Odofin, Lagos on Monday.
Gumel, who is also the president of (NOC, emphasized the urgent need for a collective response from parents, educators, and the government to combat this growing epidemic. “This is one fight that all—parents, teachers, and the government—should join hands in tackling,” he stated, highlighting the dangerous proportions that drug consumption has reached among the youth.
The event aimed to promote the core values of the Commonwealth, focusing on unity, equity, and empowerment for young people. Participants included students from four secondary schools in the Amuwo Odofin area, providing a platform for social interaction and encouraging healthy communication among the youth.
Dr. Olubukola Bojuwoye, a medical officer, served as a resource person during the event, educating students on the responsible use of drugs and the risks associated with addiction. He cautioned, “Using drugs can make or mar you, but the ultimate choice is yours,” underscoring the importance of informed decision-making among young individuals.
The program was coordinated by Austin Odigie, the NOC Assistant Secretary in Charge of Commonwealth Games Affairs, who facilitated the day’s activities aimed at instilling awareness and responsibility among the youth.
As communities grapple with this pressing issue, Gumel’s remarks serve as a clarion call for action. If left unaddressed, the ramifications of drug abuse could threaten the very fabric of society, making it imperative for all stakeholders to engage in meaningful dialogue and proactive measures to safeguard the future of Nigerian youth.
