馃嚦馃嚞NigeriaWest Africa
Kwara governor raises alarm over rising drug abuse among youths
via Punch Nigeria4 min read
Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, has expressed concern over the increasing incidence of drug abuse among young people, highlighting it as a threat to public health, security, and the future of the state. Speaking at the Anti-Substance Abuse Programme Stakeholders Conference in Ilorin, organized by the MTN Foundation to mark the 2026 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, the governor described drug abuse as a multi-dimensional challenge affecting health systems, social stability, and economic productivity. He emphasized that it is not just a law enforcement issue but also a public health concern and a developmental challenge. AbdulRazaq noted that evolving drug trafficking networks and increased access to synthetic substances make young people more vulnerable, calling for innovative and coordinated interventions. The state government has adopted a multi-pronged strategy including prevention, treatment, rehabilitation, and enforcement, and has introduced mandatory drug testing for students in tertiary institutions for early detection and intervention. A specialized rehabilitation facility is also under construction to serve Kwara and neighboring states. Mariam Nna-Fatima, Commissioner for Social Development, speaking on behalf of the First Lady, Olufolake AbdulRazaq, stressed that drug abuse directly threatens youth productivity and wellbeing, urging a shift from advocacy to concrete action involving parents, schools, religious institutions,
Free daily or weekly digest of the most important stories from across 18 African countries. No spam, unsubscribe any time.
This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Punch Nigeria.
Troops of the 12 Brigade Nigerian Army rescued five kidnapped victims in Kogi State on Wednesday. The rescue occurred during ongoing counter-terrorism operations as terrorists abandoned the victims while fleeing sustained military pressure. The operation, part of efforts to dismantle criminal networks, followed intensified ground and air offensives targeting terrorist hideouts. According to Lieutenant Hassan Abdullahi, Acting Assistant Director, Army Public Relations, 12 Brigade, troops intercepted the victims along the Oshokoshoko鈥揂dankolo route after an air interdiction mission. The rescued individuals were evacuated for medical attention and debriefing to gather intelligence. Efforts are underway to reunite them with their families. Brigadier General Kasim Sidi, Commander of 12 Brigade, commended the troops and urged residents to provide credible intelligence to support military operations.
Lionel Messi of Argentina and Miroslav Klose of Germany are now tied as the all-time leading goalscorers in FIFA World Cup history, each with 16 goals. Messi achieved this milestone after scoring a hat-trick against Algeria in the 2026 FIFA World Cup Group J opener in Kansas City. Klose participated in four World Cups from 2002 to 2014, playing 24 matches, while Messi has played in six World Cups from 2006 to 2026 across 27 matches. Ronaldo Naz谩rio of Brazil follows with 15 goals, and Gerd M眉ller of West Germany and Kylian Mbapp茅 of France are tied with 14 goals each.
Peter Obi, the 2027 presidential candidate of the Nigerian Democratic Party, has stated his readiness to die for Nigeria, emphasizing that genuine leadership requires ultimate sacrifice in the face of the country's worsening security situation. Speaking on the Black Box interview on Nevon HQ, Obi, a former Anambra State governor, addressed questions about rescuing kidnapped schoolchildren, addressing the beheading of teachers, and responding to the killing of senior military officers. While not detailing specific operational strategies, he highlighted the importance of commitment and decisive leadership, citing his past success in combating criminality in Anambra State. Obi recalled how notorious kidnappers were forced out of Anambra during his governorship, referencing an interview where a prominent kidnapper admitted criminal operations became untenable under his administration. He declared, "If you're ready to lead, you must be ready to die." When directly asked if he was ready to die for Nigeria, Obi affirmed his readiness, stating he would return to Nigeria even if there was a war while he was abroad. These remarks come as Nigeria faces persistent banditry, kidnapping for ransom, and attacks on schools and security personnel. Obi lamented the rise of non-state actors challenging state authority and expressed confidence that committed leadership could restore Nigeria's military glory, recalling the country's past role in maintaining peace in global hotspots.