The Vanguard Against Drug Abuse (VGADA) has cautioned Nigerian teenagers against using drugs and alcohol illegally over the holidays.
Dr Hope Omeiza, the Executive Director of VGADA, issued the caution during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Friday in Abuja.
According to Omeiza, drug use among teenagers and young people may result in lower dedication to family and school and more excellent absenteeism rates.
He said it was necessary to inform young people about the risks and adverse effects of drug misuse and how to prevent addiction.
He said that the holiday season was a time for family gatherings, love, and joyous laughter. Drug misuse should thus be prevented.
He claims that many people view the holiday season as a time for celebration and engage in drug misuses, such as drinking excessive amounts of alcohol and smoking marijuana and cannabis Sativa.
“In Nigeria today, drug abuse has become a worrisome trend among the Nigerian youths. Seeing our youths wasting away from drugs and substance abuse is painful.
“Christmas and New Year celebrations should not be an avenue to do drugs. Stay away from indiscriminate use of substances that could affect you and your health.
“Engage in a productive programme or activities that will add value to your life during this holiday, ” he said.
The NGO boss said that drug abuse could trigger an increased risk of suicide and homicide among youths, thereby putting the family and society at risk.
He appealed to youths to shun actions and habits that could affect their health, affecting productivity and ultimately affecting the country's development.
According to him, every Nigerian needs to understand they have a part to play in the fight against substance abuse and addiction.
“I urge you all to join hands together with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and other critical stakeholders in the fight against illicit drugs and substances abuse, ” he said.
(NAN)