Nigeria's Security Under Threat from Substance Abuse, Says Governor Mbah

Enugu State Governor, Peter Mbah, has emphasized that substance abuse poses a significant threat to Nigeria's future, affecting not only public health but also security, education, economic development, and social stability. This was stated in a keynote address delivered by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, on behalf of the governor at a stakeholders' conference organized by the MTN Foundation to commemorate the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking in Enugu. Governor Mbah stressed that addressing substance abuse requires a collective effort from governments, families, schools, religious institutions, civil society organizations, development partners, security agencies, and the private sector. According to him, 'Substance abuse is more than a health issue. It is a development issue, a security issue, an educational issue, and a social issue. Its consequences extend beyond the individual to families, communities, institutions, and the wider economy.' The governor noted that his administration has prioritized youth development, education, healthcare, and human capital development to protect young people from harmful influences and create opportunities for them to succeed. The ongoing construction of 267 Smart Green Schools across the state is aimed at equipping young people with the knowledge, skills, and values needed to thrive in a rapidly changing world. Additionally, the establishment of modern Type-2 primary healthcare facilities across the state underscores the government's commitment to improving access to quality healthcare, including mental health and psychosocial support services. Governor Mbah emphasized that prevention is the most effective strategy in combating substance abuse, stating that when young people are educated, engaged, empowered, and inspired, they are less vulnerable to harmful influences and destructive behaviors. He also called for an end to the stigmatization of individuals battling addiction, urging society to embrace rehabilitation and reintegration efforts. 'As a society, we must increasingly view addiction through the lens of public health and rehabilitation rather than condemnation. Many affected individuals require support, treatment, counseling, and reintegration,' he added. Earlier, the Executive Director of MTN Foundation, Mrs. Odunayo Sanya, said the organization launched the MTN Anti-Substance Abuse Programme in 2019 to reduce the number of first-time drug users among young Nigerians. She shared her personal experience of knowing people who started out as extremely brilliant and intelligent individuals but got lost along the way due to substance abuse. 'From taking drugs, people begin to lie, steal, and lose themselves completely. Families suffer immensely because of it,' Sanya disclosed. The foundation plans to engage over 30,000 additional students this year through awareness campaigns, school-based interventions, and quiz competitions.