A high-level meeting of healthcare professionals, social workers, and policymakers has called for urgent, coordinated action to combat drug addiction and its widespread impact on individuals, families, and communities across Nigeria.
Held virtually and hosted by Ambassador Scholarstica Ighorodje, the event brought together experts, including Dr. Adedotun Ajiboye, a clinical psychologist; Nanyorry Precious, a veteran social work team manager. The forum was organised by Dr Oluwadamisi Tayo-Ladega, the Chief Executive Officer of His Marvellous Grace Support Foundation.
The meeting commenced with an overview presentation by Onomrerhino, who described drug addiction as a growing global health crisis. “Substances such as alcohol, opioids, and cannabis are increasingly used among young adults”, he noted, citing statistics that highlight rising addiction rates and drug-related deaths.
Speakers emphasised that addiction is a complex condition shaped by various social, psychological, and economic factors. The presentation outlined common drivers of drug use, including peer pressure, trauma, unemployment, and mental health issues.
Holistic Treatment Approaches
Panelists underscored the importance of integrated, holistic treatment strategies.
Dr. Ajiboye and Dr. Adeo emphasized medical and mental health treatments that address not only the addiction but also underlying comorbidities.
Dr. Adeodotun outlined therapy techniques focused on rebuilding self-esteem in clients, using psychological assessments and cognitive behavioural therapy. He stressed that recovery is possible when individuals believe in their own potential and receive strong family support.
Role of Social Workers
Social worker Nanyorry Masha discussed the critical role social workers play in addiction recovery. Describing them as “advocates, facilitators, and connectors,” she emphasized their coordination with healthcare professionals, housing officers, and family therapists to create individualized recovery plans.
She also highlighted the challenges of relapse, stressing that it should be understood as part of the chronic nature of addiction, not as failure. Both she and Dr. Adeo advocated for including relapse prevention and family therapy in standard treatment protocols.
Supporting the Vulnerable
The meeting addressed how addiction disproportionately affects vulnerable populations such as youth, displaced persons, and the homeless. These groups, often facing multiple intersecting challenges, require tailored interventions and increased funding for services.
“There is a need to improve access to support systems and treatment facilities for hard-to-reach groups,” Masha said.
Substance Abuse and Mental Health
Panelists also discussed the strong link between substance abuse and mental health disorders. Dr. Adedotun stressed the importance of conducting comprehensive assessments to identify co-occurring conditions, and advocated for patient referrals to specialized mental health facilities.
Policy Barriers and Stigma
Discussions highlighted the detrimental impact of stigma and punitive policies on treatment access. Nanyorry Masha argued that policy frameworks should support evidence-based treatment, reduce criminal penalties for drug use, and fund rehabilitation programs.
Onomrerhino called for shifting societal perceptions of addiction to recognise it as a health issue rather than a moral failing.
National Context and Urgent Needs
In the context of Nigeria, panellists warned of a severe shortage of rehabilitation centers and underfunded mental health services. A video presentation showcased the struggles of young Nigerians battling addiction and called attention to the urgent need for systemic intervention.
Dr. Adedotun emphasized the critical importance of advocacy and the development of national mental health policies that integrate addiction services and reduce stigma.
The meeting closed with a unified call for continued collaboration, sustained advocacy, and the dismantling of systemic barriers to recovery, setting the stage for a nationwide shift in how addiction is understood and addressed.
