By Abdullahi Inuwa
Brigadier General Babatunde Omopariola, Commander of the 17 Brigade, Nigerian Army in Katsina, has raised alarm over the growing threat drug abuse poses to Nigeria’s workforce and long-term development.
Speaking during the 2025 Nigerian Army Day Celebration (NADCEL) at the Brigade Officers’ Mess in Katsina on Saturday, the senior officer urged troops to remain vigilant and report any personnel found indulging in substance abuse, particularly marijuana.
General Omopariola cautioned soldiers against the use of hard drugs within military facilities, describing the practice as a serious danger to both individual wellbeing and national stability.
“Drug abuse is not just a personal vice; it is a threat that weakens the medical and social fabric of our nation,” he stated, calling for firm action against offenders to safeguard the country’s future.
He also appealed to parents and guardians to play a more proactive role in monitoring their children’s behavior, pointing out that many drug habits begin during childhood.
Dispelling myths that link drug use with bravery, the commander stated firmly, “Courage is in our training and discipline, not in smoking weed. Are we not already brave? Are we not bold without it?”
According to him, eliminating drug abuse is essential for national productivity, improved healthcare outcomes, and a more stable society.
Also speaking at the event, Hajiya Zainab Ibrahim, a senior official from the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), linked the surge in insecurity across parts of Nigeria to the prevalence of drug abuse.
She noted that behind many crimes—ranging from terrorism and kidnapping to prostitution and ritual killings—drug use is often a key driver.
Refuting claims that unemployment is the primary cause of drug use, Ibrahim remarked, “Not everyone without a job turns to drugs. Many unemployed Nigerians are living clean, honest lives. It’s a matter of personal choice.”
She went further to explain that even commonly consumed substances such as kola nuts, tea, and coffee can act as mood-altering agents and, when misused, fall into the category of drugs.
Ibrahim condemned the abuse of over-the-counter medications and raised concerns about continued illegal access to restricted substances like Rohypnol and Pentazocine.
She concluded with a call to action, urging Nigerians to shift their mindset and treat drug abuse not just as a criminal issue, but as a serious public health challenge.
“To win this battle, we need a united front,” she said. “Government, families, communities, and individuals must all work together to raise awareness and tackle the problem head-on.”
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