A recent study has revealed that approximately 11.4% of university students in the northern region have been involved in the misuse of tramadol at some point. Alarmingly, 24% of these students have exhibited signs of dependence. These findings are published in the Journal of Substance Use and Addiction Research, which is an international research journal.
Speaking on behalf of the Northern Regional Minister, Mr. Ali Adolf John Nburidiba, the Minister expressed concern. This occurred during a Stakeholders Strategy Mapping Meeting on Combating Drug Abuse held on Monday. He was worried about the growing trend and called for urgent action to address the issue.
The Minister noted that the research findings highlighted the vulnerability of young people to substance abuse. This could have potential consequences on the region’s socio-economic stability.
The meeting gathered key stakeholders from across the region. It focused on discussing strategies and initiatives to combat drug abuse in the area.
“The government is committed to combating drug abuse,” the Minister stated. He emphasised the need for a united effort to tackle the problem. He stressed that addressing drug abuse requires collaboration from government agencies. NGOs, religious and traditional leaders should work together. Educational institutions and the public must also collaborate.
Mr. Nburidiba urged all parties to be determined and committed. He highlighted the crucial role of collective action. This is essential in ensuring the region’s health and long-term well-being.
He also took the opportunity to advise the region’s youth to refrain from using tramadol and other substances. He encouraged them to focus on their health. They are the region’s future leaders.
The Northern Regional Security Liaison Officer, Mr. Adams Mohammed, also expressed grave concern over the increasing drug abuse problem among the region’s youth. He described the situation as alarming.
He cited statistics showing a 28% increase in drug-related arrests, with 1,200 school dropouts linked to the drug crisis.
Mr. Mohammed called for a broader collaborative response to address the menace. He emphasised that the issue’s complexity required coordinated action from various sectors. He outlined proposed measures. These included establishing a Regional Drug Abuse Prevention Task Force and joint enforcement operations. Additionally, he suggested community sensitisation campaigns and youth engagement programs. Finally, he recommended intelligence-sharing roundtables.
“Through these initiatives, the importance of collective action, decisive measures, and a united front to effectively combat the drug abuse crisis would be achieved,” he stated.
He concluded by reiterating the importance of collaboration among all stakeholders. This cooperation is essential to develop a comprehensive and strategic approach. Such a plan is crucial for tackling the pressing issue of drug abuse in the region.
