President Bola Tinubu has warned against the social and structural stigmatization of drug addicts in the country.
According to the president, stigmatization prevents drug victims from accessing needed care and support.
Tinubu disclosed this while speaking at the occasion of the celebration of the United Nations International Day against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, on Monday.
Speaking on the theme: “People First: Stop Stigma and Discrimination, Strengthen Prevention,” Tinubu noted that it was imperative to prioritize the well-being and dignity of individuals affected by drug abuse, recognize their inherent worth and the importance of providing them with effective prevention and treatment interventions.
He explained that victims of drug abuse often face barriers in accessing the healthcare and social services within the society in addressing their drug use problems.
“We could not agree less with the importance of this theme now that the most vulnerable population, especially women, young people, people living in marginalized environments, high-risk drug users, people displaced by armed conflicts or natural disasters and people in rural settings, are exposed to stigma, discrimination and exclusion from mainstream opportunities,” Tinubu said.
“These groups often face barriers in accessing the healthcare and social services within the society in addressing their drug use problems. Therefore, interventions to address drug use and its associated consequences need to be mindful of the fundamental rights of every individual.”
Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to combating drug abuse and illicit drug trafficking in Nigeria.
He urged governments, international organizations, and civil stakeholders to take urgent actions to protect society by tackling the problem of illicit supply and abuse of drugs.
