馃嚦馃嚞Punch Nigeria路2 hours ago
Kwara governor raises alarm over rising drug abuse among youths
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,