Former President Olusegun Obasanjo has called upon young people across Africa to steer clear of drug abuse, labeling it a harmful habit that can drastically shorten lives.
During the second edition of the ‘Fly Above The High’ awareness campaign against drug abuse, organized by the Recovery Advocacy Network at the Olusegun Obasanjo Presidential Library in Abeokuta, he emphasized the alarming rise of drug consumption in sub-Saharan Africa.
Obasanjo remarked, “It was previously believed that Africa served merely as a transit point for drugs from Latin America; however, the reality is that drug use within Africa has escalated significantly over the past decade.”
He encouraged individuals struggling with addiction to confront their challenges openly and seek help, rather than hiding their issues, as the repercussions of drug abuse can lead to tragic outcomes, including premature death.
Reflecting on his role as Chairman of the West African Drug Commission under the Kofi Annan Foundation, Obasanjo shared the unsettling discoveries made during their research. “We traveled across West Africa under the misconception that we were insulated from the drugs that primarily flowed from Latin America to North America and Europe. To our horror and sorrow, we found that West Africa had emerged as a troubling hub for drug consumption.”
He noted that this alarming trend, identified over a decade ago, has only intensified. “What we observed in West Africa is now relevant to other regions across the continent,” he added.
In a poignant personal account, Obasanjo recounted the heartbreaking loss of a cousin who fell victim to drug-related issues despite numerous rehabilitation attempts. “Addiction is akin to a disease. While some diseases may not be curable, they can be managed. Those suffering from addiction should not keep it a secret; they must seek assistance before it’s too late,” he advised.
The former president also stressed the importance of community support for those facing addiction, stating, “A simple prayer for them could mark a significant turning point in their recovery.”
