The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency on Wednesday advocated for physical exercise as a tool to promote healthcare and prevent drug abuse among youths in Nigeria.
Speaking at a pre-walk press conference organised by Fit Africa Nigeria in collaboration with the NDLEA, the Federal Ministry of Health, the Federal Ministry of Justice, the Lagos State Ministry of Health, and others, the Assistant Commander of Narcotics at the NDLEA highlighted the alarming rise in substance abuse.
Njoku stated that physical exercise is a potent tool in preventing drug abuse as it reduces cravings, improves mood, and enhances overall well-being.
“We urge Nigerians to adopt regular physical activity as a lifestyle. The NDLEA has incorporated physical exercise into its programmes, designating Thursdays as Sports Day for officers and participating in annual walkouts on the UN Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.”
“The NDLEA is committed to exploring innovative strategies to address the growing challenge of drug abuse,” Njoku added.
The Fit Africa Nigeria pre-walk conference aims to raise awareness about the consequences of substance abuse and promote physical exercise as a preventive measure.
Njoku further noted that physical inactivity is a leading risk factor for premature death worldwide, and by incorporating physical exercise into daily routines, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of substance abuse and other health issues.
“As the NDLEA intensifies its anti-drug efforts, Nigerians are urged to support initiatives promoting healthy lifestyles and substance abuse prevention. The agency encourages community-based programmes, education, and awareness campaigns.”
“We invite all Nigerians to join us in this fight against drug abuse. Together, we can create a healthier, safer society,” he stated.
The Country Director of Fit Africa Nigeria, Tony Ukaenwe, noted that the drug abuse crisis has become a debilitating issue, particularly affecting Nigerian youths.
However, he stated that the organisation believes prevention is key, and physical exercise is a powerful tool.
Ukaenwe said, “Physical exercise requires discipline, focus, and resilience, helping individuals resist drug abuse. It improves mental health, reduces stress and anxiety, and provides a positive outlet for emotions. Fitness activities create a sense of community, promoting positive peer pressure.”
“Through the Walk Against Drug Abuse, we aim to raise awareness about the dangers of drug abuse and the preventive role physical exercise can play. We want people to understand that a healthy body is the foundation for a healthy mind, and by embracing fitness, we can help protect ourselves and our communities from the destructive power of drugs.”
“We also seek to promote physical activity as a preventive measure by advocating for physical education to be prioritised in schools, fitness programmes to be accessible in all communities, and policies that support the promotion of healthy lifestyles. Furthermore, we aim to foster partnerships with the government, health organisations, educational institutions, and the private sector to create lasting solutions.”
He emphasised that the 20-km walk scheduled for 5 October 2024 aims to mobilise Nigerians against substance abuse.
The Manager of the Foundation for Youths Development, Nwachukwu Chukwunedu, explained that engaging in physical exercise and fitness can effectively redirect individuals’ energy away from substance abuse and toward productive activities.
Chukwunedu noted, “Notably, exercise enhances mental clarity, allowing individuals to replace harmful substances with natural energy and focus. This empowers them to tackle challenging tasks, such as extended study sessions or work hours.”
