Kaduna Governor Raises Alarm Over Rising Abuse of Tramadol, Codeine Among North-West Youths
Governor Uba Sani Calls for Urgent Action Against Opioid Epidemic
Kaduna State Governor, Senator Uba Sani, has expressed deep concern over the escalating abuse of pharmaceutical opioids, particularly Tramadol and Codeine, among youths in Nigeria’s North-West region.
Public Health Crisis in the Making
Speaking at a reception hosted by the Kaduna branch of the Pharmaceutical Society of Nigeria (PSN), Governor Sani revealed alarming statistics about drug abuse in the region. Represented by Joseph Ike, Director General of Kaduna State Bureau for Substance Abuse (KADBUSA), the governor cited a 2018 United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) survey showing that 1 in 7 Nigerian youths use drugs.
“In North-Western Nigeria, we’re seeing an unacceptably high prevalence of pharmaceutical opioid abuse,” Governor Sani stated. “What’s particularly worrying is that 1 in 5 users become addicted, creating not just a public health crisis but also security and developmental challenges for our region.”
New Leadership, Renewed Hope
The governor expressed confidence in the newly elected PSN leadership – National President Ayuba Ibrahim and Deputy President (North) Aisha Isyaku – to address this critical issue. He emphasized the vital role of pharmacists in combating the epidemic through medication dispensing, patient counseling, and public health initiatives.
“Your expertise is crucial to achieving our goal of providing accessible, affordable, and quality healthcare to all Kaduna residents,” Governor Sani added.
Professional Optimism
PSN Kaduna branch Chairman, Pharm. Sunday Ali, echoed the governor’s optimism, predicting that the new leadership would usher in progressive reforms and greater professional unity to tackle the drug abuse challenge.
The event highlighted the growing concern about pharmaceutical drug abuse in Northern Nigeria and the urgent need for collaborative solutions between government and healthcare professionals.
Source: Leadership News