The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has issued a warning concerning the increasing misuse of newly identified hazardous substances among Nigerian youths. Recent operations in Lagos and Kano have led to the confiscation of these substances, which are being marketed under alarming street names such as “Suck & Die,” “Rubber Solution,” “Dead Man,” and “Gelato.”
Femi Babafemi, NDLEA’s Director of Media and Advocacy, emphasized the urgency of this issue, urging parents, guardians, and community leaders to remain vigilant. He highlighted the necessity for proactive measures to identify and curb the proliferation of these dangerous substances within communities.
This development aligns with broader concerns regarding the escalating prevalence of drug abuse among Nigerian youths, particularly those aged 15 to 29. NDLEA Chairman, Brigadier General Buba Marwa (Retd), has previously noted that schools, intended as safe spaces for learning, are increasingly becoming environments where students are exposed to substances like cannabis, codeine, and emerging synthetic drugs. These substances have devastating effects on health, academic performance, and future prospects.
The NDLEA continues to intensify its efforts in enforcement, education, and rehabilitation to combat this growing menace. The agency calls on all stakeholders, including educational institutions, parents, and community leaders, to collaborate in safeguarding the well-being and future of Nigerian youths.
