By Maxwell Ngene

Nigeria’s youth are facing a triple threat that is imperiling their future. The rampant use of hard drugs, football betting and gambling have become a destructive trifecta, ravaging the lives of young Nigerians and undermining the country’s potential.

Drug abuse has reached alarming proportions, with many young people succumbing to the allure of substances like codeine, tramadol and cannabis. These drugs not only damage physical and mental health but also lead to addiction, crime and social problems. For instance, a recent report revealed that over 40 per cent of Nigerian youths between 18 and 25 years old use drugs, with many dropping out of school or engaging in criminal activity to support their habit. The consequences are dire, with drug-related deaths, mental health issues and family breakdowns on the rise.

Football betting and gambling have also become a scourge, with many youths wagering their money and futures on the outcome of games or chance events. This obsession has led to financial ruin, depression and even suicide. A stark example is the story of a young man who lost his entire savings betting on a football match and subsequently took his own life. The gambling industry’s targeting of youths with enticing advertisements and misleading promises of quick wealth has exacerbated the problem.

The consequences of this tripartite malaise are far-reaching and devastating:

– Lost productivity: Drug abuse, football betting and gambling distract youths from education, skills development and productive endeavors, ultimately undermining Nigeria’s economic growth.

– Health risks: Drug abuse leads to physical and mental health problems, while the stress and anxiety associated with gambling and betting can trigger mental health issues.

– Social problems: These vices often lead to family breakdowns, relationship problems, family and community disintegration.

– Crime and violence: Youths engaged in these activities may turn to crime to support their habits or settle debts, perpetuating a cycle of violence and lawlessness.

– Future leaders lost: The potential leaders, creative innovators and change-makers of tomorrow are being systematically destroyed by these vices, leaving a void that will have long-term negative consequences for the nation.

The stark reality is that Nigeria’s future is at stake. It’s time for urgent action to address this triple threat. Parents, educators, policymakers, NGOs, CBOs and community leaders must join forces to educate, support and empower youths to make positive choices and build a brighter future. The clock is ticking.

We need to:

– Launch public awareness campaigns to educate youths about the dangers of drug abuse, gambling and betting.

– Establish counselling and rehabilitation centres to support those struggling with addiction.

– Implement policies and laws that regulate gambling and betting, protecting youths from exploitation.

– Invest in education, skills development and job creation to provide alternatives to these vices.

The time for action is now. Let us join forces to save Nigeria’s youth from this triple threat and secure a brighter future for generations to come.

•Dr. Ngene, a university

lecturer, writes from Enugu