The Federal Ministry of Youth Development is collaborating with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) to address the growing issue of drug abuse among Nigerian youths. Minister of Youth Development Jamila Ibrahim conveyed this during her visit to NDLEA chairman Buba Marwa in Abuja.

Minister Ibrahim outlined the government’s commitment to rehabilitating drug abuse victims and providing skill training to reintegrate them into society effectively. She emphasized the importance of steering young Nigerians away from drug abuse, emphasizing its detrimental impact on their future prospects.

Expressing optimism, Ibrahim announced the forthcoming launch of the National Youth Development Bank, a government initiative aimed at empowering the youth. The bank seeks to contribute to youth development by providing financial resources and support.

NDLEA chairman Buba Marwa expressed concern about the alarming levels of drug addiction among Nigerian youths. He emphasized the urgency for collaboration among various stakeholders, including ministries, departments, and agencies, to address this pressing issue. The partnership, he asserted, would not only combat drug abuse but also address illicit drug trafficking and related offenses, which contribute to insecurity in the country.

Marwa commended President Bola Tinubu’s ‘Renewed Hope’ agenda, applauding its focus on lifting millions of Nigerians out of poverty and improving citizens’ quality of life. The NDLEA chairman acknowledged the importance of such initiatives in aligning with broader national goals.