About 14.3 million Nigerians abuse drug, 73% arrested for possession – NAFDAC DG 

Prof. Mojisola Adeyeye, Director General of the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) has stated that approximately 14.3 million Nigerians are victims of drug abuse.

She made this statement at the inaugural ceremony of the agency’s youth programme, “Catch Them Young,” held on Wednesday at the Government Secondary School, Rumuokwuta, Port Harcourt.

According to her, research findings show that one out of every four high-risk drug users has been arrested for drug-related offenses.

She noted that the arrests include 73% for drug possession, 12% for theft, 5% for sex work, 4% for burglary, and 2% for shoplifting.

“This data only reflects the number of arrests; if we consider that most crimes go unreported, it becomes clear that we have a huge problem on our hands,” she said.

NAFDAC’s response to drug abuse 

However, Adeyeye noted the negative effects of drug abuse on families, society, and the nation’s socio-economic development.

• She explained…