14.4 Million Nigerians Exposed to Drug Abuse Crisis

During the 40th anniversary lecture of the Fountain of Hope Society held at the Archbishop Vine Memorial Church Cathedral in Ikeja, Lagos, it was revealed that approximately 14.4 million Nigerians are exposed to drug use, with nearly 45% of young people, particularly students, experiencing drug-related issues. Dr.

Olajumok Koyejo, a consultant psychiatrist at the Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital in Yaba, described substance abuse as a significant threat to the country's future. She noted that the prevalence rate in Nigeria is three times the global average, driven by factors such as peer pressure, emotional distress, and poor coping mechanisms.

Professor Olurotimi Coker identified peer influence, family instability, and easy access to drugs as major contributors to substance abuse. He urged for stronger anti-drug enforcement and greater involvement from faith-based organizations.

Olumid Talabi, a former president of the Fountain of Hope Society, challenged the church to become a refuge for young people seeking help without fear of condemnation.