10th December, 2023
The Vanguard Against Drug Abuse (VGADA) has raised alarm over the increasing rate of drug abuse in Nigeria and urged governments, corporate organisations and well-meaning Nigerians to put more effort into the fight against the menace.
The Executive Director, VGADA, Dr Hope Omeiza, made the call during the flag-off of the Youth Alive Drug Abuse, Sensitisation, Self-Awareness and Treatment Project for Gbagalape Community, Nyanya Extension, Abuja.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reported that the project, carried out in collaboration with the Soaring Youth Foundation, is targeting the provision of therapy and empowerment for 1,000 youths in Abuja by the end of next year.
The project was also carried out in partnership with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and Shekinah International Gospel Ministry, Abuja.
Omeiza called for partnership with relevant agencies, including well-meaning Nigerians and corporate organisations, to assist the youths in becoming more productive.
According to him, “It is not enough to just get them out of drugs. The question is ‘What is next for them?
“This is why we are calling on those who mean well for Nigeria to key into this project and empower people who have been rehabilitated. That way, they will be well integrated so they don’t go back to the menace.