Experts Warn Bullying May Increase Youth Substance Abuse

Experts have raised concerns that bullying could significantly increase substance abuse among young people in Nigeria. Brig Gen Mohammed Marwa, the Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), linked early exposure to bullying with a higher risk of substance abuse.

This warning came during a stakeholder consultation dialogue on anti-bullying organized by International Alert Nigeria in Abuja. Mr.

Henrietta Holdgod from the NDLEA emphasized that persistent bullying can lead to anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, and social withdrawal among young people. Binta Bello, Director General of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP), described bullying as a violation of human rights.

The dialogue highlighted that 32% of Nigerian youths aged 12-17 experience bullying, with 85% either being victims or perpetrators. Dr.

Kingslei Udo from International Alert Nigeria noted the need for concrete policy actions to address bullying, especially in light of recent incidents, as Nigeria has already passed an anti-bullying bill set for implementation in 2025.