Former President Muhammadu Buhari has lamented the adverse impacts of drug abuse on Nigerians.

Specifically, Mr Buhari expressed concern over the rate of drug abuse in Katsina, saying all concerned indigenes must unite to end the menace.

Mr Buhari stated this at a dialogue in Katsina, organised by a group of concerned Katsina elders, Katsina Consultative Forum (KCF), with the theme, ‘Tackling the menace of drug abuse among youths in Katsina State’.

According to him, the issue of drug abuse among the youth and women in the state is a great concern, stressing the need to fight and address the menace in society.

The ex-president stated, “Our youths represent our beloved assets, and protecting them is crucial for our nation’s future. We can’t afford to watch drug abuse dismantle their potential and the country’s future.

“I urge all of us to unite and act decisively against drug abuse in Katsina state. We must not turn away from this self-inflicted suffering of our youths. We need to confront this issue collectively with determination and resolve the challenges.”

The former president pointed out that youths were the future administrators of the state, and their potentials were immense, saying, “You cannot realise these potentials if too many of you succumb to drug abuse addiction. Believe in yourself, ability and your future. I know the challenges you face are many; be up to it; we’ll work together to offer you the support and the opportunity needed.”

Mr Buhari said leaders, educators, and policymakers should lead with compassion and set an example through investment in youths, providing them with education, employment and social support.

He further urged leaders to also collaborate on prevention, treatment, reintegration and strategies for those youths battling with addiction.

“This is not a challenge that one person can tackle alone. We all have a role in curbing drug abuse. Let’s all stand together for the sake of our youths and the prosperity of our state.

“The law enforcement agencies should also increase efforts against drug trafficking and distribution,” added Mr Buhari.

Governor Dikko Radda, represented by Deputy Governor Faruq Lawal-Jobe, commended Mr Buhari for gracing the occasion and the organisers for coming with such giant efforts.

According to the governor, the administration will not relent in collaborating with all the relevant agencies in fighting the drug abuse challenges.

Also, the commander of Zone ‘F’ of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Sule Momodu, appealed to the state government to provide them with additional patrol vehicles to enhance their operations.

(NAN)