Lagos state government admits the state has a drug abuse problem
The government of Lagos state led by Akinwunmi Ambode, has expressed commitment to the eradication of the unhealthy practice of drug abuse prevalent among youths in the State.
The Governor, who gave the assurance through the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Mr. Tunji Bello at the flag-off ceremony of the Lagos State Kicks Against Drug Abuse (LASKADA) held at the Blue-Roof, LTV Agidingbi, Ikeja, added that the increasing menace of drug abuse and its impact on the society in recent times is huge.
He said the campaign themed “Lagos State Kicks Against Drug Abuse” (LASKADA) is a clarion call and reminder of the responsibilities of individuals, organisations and the society at large to rise up to the occasion and safeguard the collective future of the youths, stressing that everyone must condemn the excessive self – administration of drugs without regard for medical prescription.
He noted that the decision to launch the awareness campaign in Lagos State is a response to the dangerous dimension that drug abuse has taken and a demonstration of the Government’s determination to nip it in the bud.
Ambode informed that the establishment of youth-friendly centres in all the Local Government and Local Government Development Areas is meant to serve as avenues for relaxation and to further engage the youths in productive ventures to drastically reduce the menace of drug abuse across the State.
He emphasised that the Drug-Dependent Rehabilitation Centres located in Isheri and Majidun were established to give support to young ones addicted to drugs, adding that the centres are also operating alongside privately-owned institutions which are contributing significantly to the realisation of this overall objective.
Earlier in her goodwill message, wife of the Lagos State Governor, Mrs. Bolanle Ambode said the society cannot pretend that all is well, considering the unwholesome attitude of many youths who are drug addicts, noting that the scale and frequency of drug abuse have become a matter of concern that must be urgently addressed.
She said the task of winning the fight against the menace of drug abuse should not be left for the government alone, affirming that parents also have a big role to play because charity begins at home.
Also, in his welcome address, the Commissioner for Youth and Social Development, Mr. Agboola Dabiri said recent statistics showed that abuse of drugs among the youths is increasing by the day, adding that youths abuse variety of drugs which include inhalants (fumes from glues, aerosols and solvents), over-the-counter cough syrups like codeine, sleep and diet medications, marijuana as well as stimulants (cocaine, crack and speed) among others.