Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, has raised concern over the growing abuse of drugs among young people in the state, warning that it is becoming a serious threat to public health, safety, and youth development.
He spoke on Tuesday in Ilorin during a stakeholders’ conference on drug prevention organised by the MTN Foundation to mark the 2026 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.
The event brought together government officials, the NDLEA, and development partners to strengthen efforts against substance abuse.
In his keynote address, AbdulRazaq described drug abuse as a multi-faceted problem affecting health, society, and the economy.
“Drug abuse is not merely a law enforcement issue; it is a public health concern, a developmental challenge, and a threat to the future of our youths.”
He noted that the increasing circulation of synthetic drugs and exposure of young people to trafficking networks are worsening the situation.
“It undermines educational attainment, destroys families, fuels criminal activities, affects productivity, and places significant strain on healthcare and social welfare systems,” he added.
The governor explained that the state has adopted a combined approach involving prevention, treatment, rehabilitation, and enforcement to address the challenge.
He also highlighted the introduction of compulsory drug testing in tertiary institutions as part of early detection and intervention measures.
“This policy is not intended to stigmatise or punish young people. Rather, it is a proactive measure aimed at early detection, timely intervention and the provision of appropriate support services,” he said.
He further disclosed ongoing plans to establish a rehabilitation facility for substance abuse treatment.
Stakeholders at the conference emphasized the need for joint responsibility among families, schools, religious bodies, and government agencies to curb the growing menace, warning that drug abuse continues to endanger the future of young people.
