Drug Abuse in Nigeria: An Ongoing Scourge
Ayotamuno Ibifiri, Ogunleye Olamide, and Adeniyi Ifeoluwatoyosi Lanre keeps his “powder” in a small sachet. It’s hidden in a specific spot, wedged in between the matress’ corner and his bed frame, so it’s always within easy reach but invisible to those who aren’t in the know. All of his other “tools” are there, as well, waiting for the next time he’ll light up. Across the world, millions of people consume illicit drugs everyday. There are many ways to get intoxicated; the fastest method is a direct injection to the vein, the most potent, through the digestive tract and the most common is through the lungs. What all of these methods and drugs have in common is that they’re a way to make people feel “abnormal.” They evoke a different state of mind, bring out different behaviors far from what would be considered the norm for that individual. According to surveys done by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime [ 1 ], drugs are most consumed by youths, with usage levels peaki...