Anambra govt warns youths against substance abuse

Anambra State's government has issued a stern warning to its young citizens about the perils of substance abuse, including counterfeit medicines, adulterated food products, and unsafe lifestyle choices. Dr. Nelson Omenugha, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Youth Reformation, highlighted the growing concerns over serious illnesses, kidney problems, and sudden deaths among young people.

These conditions, Omenugha pointed out, could be attributed to drug misuse, fake medicines, and unsafe consumable products, exposing them to severe health complications and even death.

The government emphasized that one's health is their future, and urged the youth to adopt healthy lifestyles, stay away from hard drugs and misusing prescription medicines, and purchase medicines only from authorized sources. The statement stressed that no short-term pleasure, peer pressure, or quick financial gain should ever be deemed worth sacrificing one's life, dreams, and contribution to society.

Omenugha called for vigilance among youths, parents, community leaders, youth organizations, and citizens, asking them to report any suspected drug networks, counterfeit medicines, or unlawful sales to the appropriate authorities such as NAFDAC, NDLEA, and other law enforcement agencies. The government's Light House office in Awka was opened to receive such reports, urging citizens to provide relevant details like product names, packaging, and locations.

The state government pledged to protect young people, promote healthy choices, uphold the value of life, strengthen community vigilance, and foster a generation marked by discipline, productivity, and positive values.