Health Advocate and Founder of Women Strengthening Women (WSW), Mrs Mercy David-Adejo has urged teenagers in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to avoid experimenting with illicit drugs, warning that what begins as a single attempt could lead to long-term consequences.
Mrs David-Adejo gave the advise on Saturday in Abuja, during an awareness event titled, “One Puff, One Pill, One Mistake: The Hidden Dangers of Illicit Drugs on Teenagers.”
She informed that many teenagers were introduced to drugs through peer pressure, curiosity, and the desire to fit in, often underestimating the risks involved.
“It often starts innocently, a friend offers a pill at a party or encourages experimentation. What seems harmless can quickly become a habit that is difficult to break,” she said.
According to her, drug abuse affects the developing brain of teenagers, impairing their ability to think clearly, concentrate in school, and make informed decisions about their future.
She noted that beyond health implications, substance abuse could expose young people to risky behaviours, strained family relationships, declining academic performance, and possible legal consequences.
She added that many teenagers caught in drug use gradually lose interest in education and personal ambitions, while some struggle with mental health challenges such as anxiety and depression.
“What makes this issue particularly troubling is that every teenager affected is someone with dreams and aspirations that may never be realised if they remain trapped in addiction,” she said.
The advocate stressed the need for parents, teachers, and community leaders in the FCT to play active roles in preventing drug abuse among youths through open communication, mentorship, and sustained awareness campaigns.
She also called for the creation of safe spaces where teenagers could access accurate information, guidance, and support to resist negative peer influence.
She urged schools and community-based organisations to intensify education on the dangers of illicit drugs, noting that early intervention remained key to prevention.
She advised teenagers to prioritise their future and make choices that would safeguard their health and aspirations.
“No temporary excitement is worth sacrificing your health, your dreams, or your life. Young people must be bold enough to say no and wise enough to walk away,” she said.
She reiterated that tackling drug abuse required a collective effort from families, institutions and policymakers to protect the next generation. (NAN)
