By Akpan David, Calabar
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) in Cross River State has called on the federal government to establish drug rehabilitation centers across the country, including in Cross River State.
This appeal was part of a 15-point communiqué issued at the conclusion of the union’s monthly congress.
The NUJ emphasized that its call aligns with an earlier request by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for rehabilitation facilities to address the rising number of youths struggling with drug addiction.
The communiqué urged stronger collaboration between the state government, NDLEA, and other relevant agencies to form a joint task force aimed at curbing the growing rate of drug abuse, particularly among young people who have unrestricted access to hard drugs and other illicit substances.
The document was signed by Comrade Isaac Aqua (Chairman), Comrade James Ekpo (Secretary), and Edel Ita (Member).
Speaking with journalists in Calabar, the NDLEA’s Deputy Commander of Narcotics, Nandi Roselyn Ada, expressed grave concern over the widespread drug abuse in Cross River, noting that the state has one of the highest rates of addiction in the country.
She disclosed that the psychiatric hospital in Calabar is overwhelmed with drug-related cases.
“While I cannot provide exact statistics at the moment, the situation is extremely alarming. We are deeply concerned about the sharp rise in drug addiction across Cross River State,” Ada stated.
She further noted that drug abuse has become so severe that in many parts of Calabar and other major towns, young people are experiencing mental health crises due to substance addiction.
Comments are closed, but trackbacks and pingbacks are open.