A Non-Governmental organisation providing free medical outreach and educational support to underserved communities, Heritage Advancement Forum has called for more effective policies and regulations to combat rising drug abuse among teenagers.

The group noted that the unregulated sale of alcohol and drugs expose teenagers to drug abuse, creating an environment where these substances are readily available to anyone, regardless of age.

Speaking at a talk show organised in partnership with Richfield College at the school premises in Lekki, the organisation’s president, Anegbode Odion, observed that drug abuse is already becoming an epidemic which posed serious danger to the future of the country.

He urged the federal government to take immediate action to strengthen laws and regulations around drug abuse, citing the lack of effective legislation to protect children from being exposed to drugs and alcohol.

Odion urged the government to learn from the international best practices, where laws regulating the sale of alcohol and drugs have been effective in reducing drug abuse.

Head of School at Richfield Schools, Maureen Ihonor, also underscored the need for a collaborative effort in addressing the problem, pointing out that the government, schools, and parents all have a role to play in ensuring that children do not engage in hard drugs.

Ihonor stressed the importance of sensitisation and education in preventing drug abuse among young people, noting that teachers should find ways to educate students about the dangers of drug abuse, and the government should provide resources and support to facilitate this process.

Principal of Richfield College, Temitope Otokita also called for urgent action to tackle the menace, stating that, “drug abuse is not the only factor contributing to the disintegration of society, but it is a significant one.

“We need to educate our students on the dangers of drug abuse and take concrete steps to prevent it.” Otokita praised the government’s decision to ban pornographic materials, but noted that drug-related content poses a similar threat to young people.

“Students are often exposed to drug-related content online, which can lead to experimentation and addiction. We need to protect our children from this harmful influence,” she said.