Youths Turn to Nail Polish, Methylated Spirit to get ‘High’: NDLEA Raises Alarm

In a concerning revelation, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has uncovered a disturbing trend among Nigerian youths who are resorting to unconventional means to attain a state of euphoria. According to NDLEA officials, substances such as nail polish and methylated spirit are now being abused for their intoxicating effects, as traditional narcotics like tramadol, codeine syrup, and cannabis become increasingly expensive for some users.

Tijjani Rabe, the Commander of NDLEA in Ogun State, disclosed this disconcerting development during a recent interaction with members of the National Association of Nigeria Students (NANS) at the agency’s headquarters in Abeokuta. Represented by Deputy State Commander Ekundayo Williams, Rabe expressed deep concern over the implications of this trend for affected families and the broader Nigerian society.

Rabe emphasized that despite extensive awareness campaigns and advocacy efforts, the agency continues to witness a steady rise in substance abuse cases annually. He highlighted data from a recent survey indicating a significant increase in drug use among Nigerian youths, with a notable proportion resorting to household items like nail polish and methylated spirit due to economic constraints.

“Besides the conventional drugs, we are seeing a rising trend of abuse involving non-conventional substances, particularly among our youth population,” stated Rabe. He underscored the health risks associated with such practices, including the transmission of blood-borne diseases like HIV and Hepatitis B, especially among those who resort to injecting substances using needles and syringes.

Rabe further pointed out that the South-west region of Nigeria, particularly Ogun State, faces heightened drug-related challenges, exacerbated by the presence of numerous tertiary institutions. These institutions attract a diverse demographic of young people, each with their own cultural and social backgrounds, contributing to the complexity of substance abuse issues in the area.

In response to these challenges, NDLEA has intensified its collaborative efforts with sister agencies and stakeholders, extending awareness programs to schools, places of worship, markets, parks, and rural communities across the region.

The NDLEA commander urged for sustained vigilance and concerted efforts from all stakeholders to combat this growing menace, emphasizing the need for comprehensive strategies to address the underlying causes driving youths towards such dangerous practices.