World Drug Day: Parental neglect primary driver of abuse, other vices, says cleric

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The Archbishop of the African Church Cathedral Bethel, Abuja, Most Rev. Peter Ogunmuyiwa, says parental neglect is one of the primary drivers fueling the rise in drug abuse and other social vices among young people.

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Ogunmuyiwa gave the warning in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria on Monday in Abuja, in commemoration of the 2026 United Nations International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.

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NAN reports that World Drug Day is observed globally every June 26, and this year’s theme is “The World Drug Problem: Persisting Issues, New Challenges and Innovative Responses.”

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The cleric urged parents to take greater responsibility for monitoring and guiding their children.

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He said that parents must act as watchdogs over their families and pay closer attention to the activities, associations, and lifestyles of their children.

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He lamented that many parents had become disconnected from the lives of their children, leaving them vulnerable to drug abuse, criminal activities, and other negative influences.

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The archbishop also expressed concern over the growing impact of the digital space and social media on young people.

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He stressed that parents must be aware of what their children consume online and the kind of influences shaping their behaviour.

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“Many social problems confronting society today can be traced to a breakdown in family supervision and the failure of parents to instil discipline and godly values in their children.

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“Parents need to be reminded that children are gifts from God entrusted to their care and that they would be held accountable for how they raised them,” he said.

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The cleric stressed the importance of training children in the fear of God, noting that strong moral foundations remained one of the most effective safeguards against substance abuse and other destructive behaviours.

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According to him, churches also have a responsibility to complement the efforts of parents by providing moral guidance, counselling, mentorship, and spiritual support for young people.

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The archbishop described the church as a centre of hope and transformation capable of helping individuals struggling with addiction and other life challenges.

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He urged faith-based organisations to intensify efforts aimed at promoting positive values and strengthening families.

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Ogunmuyiwa also called on society to show compassion toward individuals battling substance abuse instead of stigmatising them.

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“Addiction should not be viewed as a hopeless condition. Those affected can recover and rebuild their lives with the right support, intervention, and commitment.

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“Jesus hates sin but loves sinners. Those struggling with addiction should not lose hope because transformation and recovery are possible,” he said.

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The cleric urged persons battling drug dependence to embrace positive change and seek help, describing every intervention as a potential turning point toward a better future.

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He added that churches should continue to provide spiritual and emotional support for individuals seeking freedom from addiction.

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Ogunmuyiwa commended the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for its sustained efforts in combating drug abuse and illicit trafficking across the country.

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He said the agency had continued to make significant sacrifices in protecting communities from the dangers posed by illicit drugs.

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The cleric urged officers and personnel of the agency to remain steadfast in the discharge of their responsibilities.

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The archbishop also called for greater public support for the agency, noting that the fight against drug abuse required the collective efforts of families, religious institutions, communities, and government.

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He offered prayers for NDLEA officers and personnel, asking God to strengthen, protect, and reward them for their service to the nation.

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Ogunmuyiwa also prayed for families, fathers, and mothers, urging God to grant them wisdom and strength to raise responsible children capable of contributing positively to society.

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He further prayed for peace, progress, and prosperity in Nigeria, expressing hope that the country would continue to advance in security, unity, and development.

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The archbishop urged Nigerians to work together in promoting moral values and creating a society free from drug abuse and other social vices.

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(NAN)

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