Introduction:
Drugs, originally meant for medicinal and therapeutic purposes, often deviate into a source of pleasure leading to drug abuse. Drug abuse is defined as the excessive, maladaptive, and addictive use of drugs for non-medicinal purposes, causing social, psychological, and physical issues.
Why People Abuse Drugs:
People abuse drugs for various reasons, such as curiosity, relaxation, peer pressure, or as a coping mechanism. This behavior is often initiated by a desire to experiment or escape, leading to a vicious cycle of addiction and abuse.
Prevalence of Drug Abuse in Nigeria:
According to a report by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, 14.4% (14.3 million) of people aged 15-64 in Nigeria abuse drugs. This alarming statistic highlights the urgency of addressing this issue at a national level. A study by NOI polls highlighted that marijuana, codeine, and alcohol are the most abused drugs in Nigeria. Poverty and unemployment have been identified as key factors contributing to the rise in drug abuse. Among youths, marijuana, Tramadol and codeine are widely abused, posing severe health risks.
Effects of Drug Abuse:
Drug abuse, especially of hard drugs like cannabis, has severe consequences on physical and mental health. Cannabis, for instance, affects brain functions, impacting memory, decision-making, and emotional regulation. Moreover, the potency of cannabis has increased significantly over the years, exacerbating its impact on users. Tramadol, a synthetic opioid analgesic, and codeine, a mild opioid painkiller, can lead to severe health issues when abused. Tramadol, known as ‘Young papi’ or ‘Amadi red,’ can cause arrhythmias, cramps, coma, and death when misused. Codeine, also known as ‘Captain cody’ or ‘Little C,’ can lead to dependence and maladaptive behaviors, even death with prolonged abuse.
Other commonly abused drugs include;
- Colorado also called colos( mixture of a lot of drugs including cannabis)
- Rohypnol also called roofies used for rape at some parties
- Methamphetamine also known as Mkpuru mmiri, ice or Crank
- Ecstacy also called Molly
- Barbiturates also known as Downer
- Cocaine also caled coke or crack
- Pentazocine also called PENT
- Methaqualone also known as Qualdes
- Amphetamine also known as Upper speed
- Phencyclidine also called angel dust
- Ketamine also called special K
- Heroin also called Smack, Junck, Thailand
- Lysergic Acid Diethylamide (LSD)
- Exol-5 also called white
Others forms of cannabinoids include kush, black mamba, lamba, black lamba, colorado.
Public Health Impact/Consequences:
Drug misuse leads to numerous consequences including increased risk of bloodborne viruses, loss of productivity, mental health disorders, and participation in criminal activities to sustain drug habits.
Drug abuse has deeply rooted itself in our society. A particular incident in my community intensified my commitment to advocacy against drug abuse. In 2010, my cousin secured a scholarship to attend university, a cause for celebration. However, three years later, news reached us that he had stopped attending lectures, joined a cult, and succumbed to the grips of addiction. His story is tragically common in Nigeria, often attributed to spiritual causes, leading families to seek help in prayer houses instead of rehabilitation centers.
His continued dependence on marijuana progressed to tramadol and eventually harder drugs. A conversation with someone in my community revealed a distressing pattern: individuals chasing the fleeting euphoria of their first drug experience, leading them down a destructive path. This cycle perpetuates their addiction, trapping them in a seemingly endless loop.
The Lack of Education and Awareness:
One significant issue our society faces is the lack of education about the dangers of drug abuse and the absence of awareness regarding available solutions for those already ensnared by addiction. Spirituality, while important, is not a standalone solution for recovery. In 2022, I encountered my cousin again, drowning in regrets and overshadowed by his peers who had moved forward in life. His story mirrors countless others who remain trapped due to lack of support and understanding.
Addressing Mental Health Challenges:
Mental health challenges often underlie drug abuse. People with conditions like depression, anxiety, or mood disorders may turn to illicit substances for relief. Proper enlightenment on mental health issues is essential. Instead of relying on drugs, individuals need access to resources that address their mental health concerns directly.
Continued Support and Recovery:
Rehabilitation is just the beginning of the recovery journey. Individuals who successfully complete rehabilitation should be encouraged to join or establish support groups. These communities provide ongoing encouragement, making the arduous journey of recovery more manageable.
Addressing the Drug Pandemic:
1. Legislation and Enforcement: It’s vital for Nigerian bodies like NDLEA and NAFDAC to work impartially and efficiently to combat drug-related crimes.
2. Awareness Campaigns: Public awareness and education programs should focus on the risks of drug abuse, targeting schools, communities, and social media.
3. Rehabilitation Centers: Support existing rehabilitation centers and advocate for more accessible mental health services to aid individuals in recovery. Some rehabilitation centers in Nigeria include:
i. Compassionate Recovery center, Ibadan
ii. Happy life family clinic, Zainab crescent Medina estate, gbagada
iii. Tranquil and Quest behavioural health, Igbo efon Lekki, Ajah Lagos
iv. Unilorin rehabilitation center
v. Drug addiction treatment education and research, Lagos
vi. Springlife Medical Consultants and Drug abuse rehabilitation, Port Harcourt
4. Policy Recommendations: Advocate for stronger policies, including stricter regulations on drug information dissemination on social media and increased penalties for drug-related crimes.
This includes
a. Increased Funding for NDLEA: Allocate more funds to the National Drugs Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for logistics, training, and office infrastructure.
b. Focus on Education and Rehabilitation: Shift policies toward education and rehabilitation rather than confrontation. Treat drug abusers as individuals needing medical help and rehabilitation instead of imprisonment.
c. Training for NDLEA Personnel: Provide comprehensive training to NDLEA personnel to keep up with global trends in the fight against drug abuse and trafficking.
d. Stringent Recruitment: Implement strict recruitment processes to prevent individuals of questionable character or those with drug dependencies from entering the NDLEA.
e. Internal Leadership: Appoint leaders within the NDLEA based on merit and experience, ensuring that career officers with extensive knowledge and professionalism head the agency.
Suggested Solutions to the Drug Pandemic:
Educational initiatives and prevention strategies are essential to combat drug abuse effectively.
1. Social Resistance Skills Training:
- Goal: Increase awareness of social influences supporting substance use. Teach skills to resist peer and media pressures.
- Components: Recognize high-risk situations, deal with peer pressure, and counter techniques used by advertisers.
2. Normative Education:
- Goal: Correct inaccurate perceptions about substance use prevalence and social acceptability among adolescents.
- Approach: Provide actual substance use prevalence data, undermining beliefs about acceptability using evidence from national studies.
3. Competence Enhancement Skills Training:
- Focus: Enhance personal and social skills to reduce susceptibility to drug-promoting influences.
- Skills Taught: Problem-solving, decision-making, self-control, social skills, and assertiveness.
- Emphasis: Teaching generic skills applicable in various life situations, including substance use scenarios.
These programs empower individuals, especially youths, by equipping them with skills, accurate information, and confidence to resist substance use pressures and make healthier life choices.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, drug abuse in Nigeria poses a significant threat to individuals and communities. It’s imperative that we work together to combat this issue through education, legislation, and community support. By raising awareness, supporting rehabilitation efforts, and implementing effective policies, we can create a society where individuals are not victimized by drug abuse but empowered to lead healthy, fulfilling lives.
Thank you.
lifestyle 