The Treasurer of the National Youth Council of Nigeria (NYCN), Lagos State Chapter, Amb. Ibraheem Ogunbanwo, has expressed deep concern over the growing trend of drug and substance abuse among Nigerian youth, describing it as a serious national threat with far-reaching consequences.
Ogunbanwo, a youth ambassador and educator, said the increasing involvement of young people in drug use is having devastating psychological, social, economic, and physical effects, weakening the foundation of communities and undermining national development. He warned that the future of the country is at risk if urgent and coordinated action is not taken.
According to him, substance abuse disrupts normal brain function and contributes to mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, hallucinations, and psychosis. He said many affected youths become trapped in addiction, lose their sense of purpose, and suffer long-term psychological damage.
He also linked the problem to the rise in violent crimes, cultism, and domestic abuse among youth, stating that drug use is fuelling moral decay, breaking down families, and increasing fear and insecurity within communities. Ogunbanwo emphasised that many young people who should be agents of positive change are being stigmatised and pushed further into cycles of crime and poverty.
On the economic front, he noted that drug abuse leads to loss of productivity, school dropouts, unemployment, and increased financial strain on families. He said public resources that could be channelled into development are instead being used to address drug-related health care needs, law enforcement, and rehabilitation efforts.
Ogunbanwo further warned that drug abuse takes a heavy toll on the physical health of users, weakening their immune systems and damaging vital organs, including the liver, kidneys, lungs, and heart. He added that users are also at higher risk of contracting diseases such as HIV/AIDS and hepatitis.
He stressed that the impact of drug abuse extends beyond individuals, placing additional burdens on Nigeria’s healthcare, justice, and security systems, while also threatening the country’s capacity to produce a strong, healthy, and capable generation of leaders.
Calling for immediate and collective action, Ogunbanwo urged parents to become more vigilant, schools to incorporate drug education into their curricula, communities to provide positive role models, and government to enforce stronger policies, fund youth empowerment initiatives, and ensure the availability of effective rehabilitation centres.
“Say no to drugs. Say yes to a future of purpose, health, and prosperity. The time to act is now,” he said.
Ambassador Ogunbanwo concluded with a message of urgency and hope: “Build the youth, build the nation. Impact the youth, impact the nation positively.”