The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Tajudeen Abbas, has called for urgent action to address the escalating crisis of drug abuse and domestic violence in Northwest Nigeria.
Speaking at the flag-off event of Nigeria’s Northwest Zonal Sensitization Against Drug Abuse and Domestic Violence in Kaduna on Monday, Abbas cited alarming statistics showing a 25% increase in drug abuse across the region over the past three years. Kaduna State alone recorded a 28% surge in drug seizures in 2023.
"We Must Protect Our Youth and Women" – Abbas
Describing the situation as “dire,” Abbas stressed the devastating impact of substance abuse on young people, warning that swift intervention is needed to curb the growing addiction crisis.
“The situation is dire, and we must act swiftly to protect our youth from the destructive allure of drugs,” he stated.
He also condemned the rising cases of domestic violence, revealing that:
- 35% of women nationwide have experienced some form of abuse.
- The situation is worse in Kano State, where 40% of women face domestic violence.
A Multi-Faceted Approach to Addressing the Crisis
To combat these twin crises, Abbas called for a multi-pronged approach involving:
✅ Government agencies to strengthen enforcement and support victims.
✅ Community leaders to promote awareness and cultural shifts.
✅ Non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to provide rehabilitation and legal assistance.
He commended President Bola Tinubu’s administration for strengthening the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and introducing tougher legal frameworks to combat domestic violence.
Traditional and Religious Leaders Key to Cultural Change
Abbas underscored the crucial role of traditional and religious leaders in promoting zero tolerance for abuse and drug-related crimes.
“We must work together to create a safer and more secure future for every Nigerian,” he urged.
The Northwest Zonal Sensitization Initiative
The Nigeria Northwest Zonal Sensitization Against Drug Abuse and Domestic Violence initiative seeks to:
📌 Educate citizens on the dangers of drug abuse and domestic violence.
📌 Provide support services for victims and their families.
📌 Promote community-based solutions to tackle these challenges.
"A United Front Against Drug Abuse and Violence"
In his closing remarks, Abbas emphasized the need for collaborative efforts at all levels of society:
“We must unite our efforts to protect our youth, uphold the rights and dignity of every citizen, and create a safer and more just society for all.”
The initiative marks a critical step in addressing one of the most pressing social crises in Northwest Nigeria, as leaders, activists, and law enforcement agencies work towards a more secure and violence-free future.
