Anambra NDLEA Chief Sounds Alarm on Increasing Hard Drug Abuse Among Young People

The Anambra State Commander of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Charles Onubuogu, has raised serious concerns regarding the worrying increase in hard drug consumption among the youth in the state.

Onubuogu shared his observations during an advocacy and awareness session held in Awka over the weekend, indicating that substance abuse is becoming a critical danger to the health and future of young individuals.

"There is nothing rewarding about drug use," he stated, stressing the necessity for young people to possess the strength to reject drugs entirely. He emphasized that substance abuse yields no benefits, only destruction, characterizing hard drugs as 'killer pills.'

He expressed sorrow over the reality that a growing number of young individuals have turned to drug abuse, labeling this development as alarming and deeply concerning. The NDLEA leader urged parents, guardians, and responsible community members to treat the campaign against drug abuse with the same seriousness that is often directed toward religious outreach.

"We must work to save souls for our nation," he implored. "Parents need to dedicate quality time to their children—spend time with them, engage in meaningful conversations, and watch for early indicators that may lead them to drug use."

Onubuogu also called upon youth leaders, community heads, religious organizations, and civil society to maintain ongoing dialogues with young people regarding the risks associated with drug usage. He emphasized the importance of enhancing awareness efforts without delay.

"The pace at which youth are engaging in substance abuse is alarming," he warned. "This is why the NDLEA in Anambra focuses exclusively on assisting individuals in rejecting drug use and extricating themselves from its grasp."

He encouraged Anambra's youth to adopt a drug-free lifestyle, asserting that their health and the potential for a successful future depend heavily on avoiding illicit drugs. Additionally, he called on society to regard the struggle against drug abuse as a shared responsibility.

"If a community is plagued with drug addicts, the environment becomes unlivable," Onubuogu cautioned.