Former Nigerian President Olusegun Obasanjo has issued a stern warning to African youths about the dangers of drug abuse, emphasizing that substance use can ruin both their dreams and lives. Obasanjo made this call on Saturday during the 2nd edition of the Fly Above The High sensitization programme against drug abuse, organized by the Recovery Advocacy Network in Abeokuta, Ogun State.

Describing substance abuse as “destructive,” Obasanjo expressed alarm over the rising issue of drug consumption in sub-Saharan Africa. He remarked, “Drugs consumption in Africa is an issue and it has grown worse in the last 10 years.” He urged young people struggling with addiction to seek help to avoid the devastating consequences, including untimely death.

Reflecting on his past role as Chairman of the West African Drug Commission under the Kofi Annan Foundation, Obasanjo shared a sobering story. “While serving as Chairman of the West African Drug Commission, we were nine on the commission. We went round West Africa with the belief that we were free from drugs, which come mainly from Latin America and go to North America and Europe. But to our dismay, we found out that West Africa had equally become a center for drug consumption.” He noted that the situation has only worsened in the last decade, spreading across Africa.

Obasanjo also shared a deeply personal experience, recounting the loss of a cousin, a carpenter, who died from a drug-related issue despite efforts to help him overcome his addiction. “I always talk about drugs with all soberness because I know firsthand how addiction can destroy lives,” he said.

Drawing a comparison between addiction and chronic diseases, Obasanjo highlighted his own experience with managing diabetes for over 40 years. “Addiction is a form of disease. Some diseases cannot be cured but can be managed. People with addiction should not hide it; they should seek help before it is too late.”

He also emphasized the need for greater community support for those battling addiction, calling for compassion and encouragement for those seeking recovery. “A word of prayer could be the turning point for someone in need,” he remarked.

Dr. Kunle Adesina, President of the Recovery Advocacy Network, echoed Obasanjo’s concerns, underscoring the need for more intensive campaigns against drug abuse, particularly among the youth. Citing recent reports, he revealed that approximately 14.3 million Nigerians had used drugs in the past six months, with an alarming increase in female users, now accounting for one in five drug users.

Dr. Adesina stressed the importance of stronger legislation to limit drug availability and urged everyone to take ownership of the fight against drug abuse. Meanwhile, mental health expert Dr. Sam Abah warned about the irreversible damage drug addiction can cause to the brain, urging young people to avoid drugs to safeguard their futures.

Dr. Abah concluded, “Drugs destroy the brain, leaving the lives of victims hanging in the balance. Those already caught in the web of addiction should seek help before it’s too late.”