Expert Cautions Youth on rise in synthetic drug abuse

Experts warn of severe health and societal risks, urging government action which has prompted Kwara State to organise a summit on prevention and control which had National Youth Service Corps members and other youth groups in attendance.

Government bodies at all levels have been called upon to strengthen collaboration with stakeholders to curb the rising prevalence of synthetic drug abuse among young people in the country.

This appeal was made by Dr Issa Awoye, Chief Medical Director (CMD) of the Federal Neuro-Psychiatric Hospital in Budo Egba, Kwara State, during his presentation at the 2nd Kwara Stakeholders’ Summit on Drug Abuse Prevention and Control, held in Ilorin.

Speaking on the topic, “The Neuropsychiatric Consequences of Synthetic Drug Abuse: A Clinical Perspective,” Dr Awoye highlighted the alarming increase in the production, trafficking, and consumption of synthetic drugs, particularly among the youth.

He identified commonly abused substances such as tramadol, codeine cough syrup, methamphetamine (meth), rohypnol, and ecstasy, noting that these drugs are often more affordable and accessible than traditional narcotics, posing severe risks to both individuals and society.

Dr Awoye also pointed to corruption within law enforcement and regulatory agencies as a major obstacle hindering efforts to control the drug trade.

Additionally, he emphasised that insufficient funding for drug control and rehabilitation programmes has limited the effectiveness of initiatives aimed at addressing the issue.

In his address, Mukail Aileru, Special Assistant to the Kwara State Governor on Drug Abuse Prevention and Control, reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to tackling the growing crisis.

He described the surge in synthetic drug abuse as a significant threat to public health, security, and the future of the younger generation.