11/01/2025
Wabbas Care Foundation and the Fight Against Drug Abuse Amongst Nigerian Youth
BY DR. PIUS LAWAN WABAS, CEO
Wabbas Care Foundation is a non-profit organization dedicated to addressing critical social and health challenges in Nigeria, particularly among vulnerable groups. Rooted in its vision of "Caring for the poor, less privileged, and the most vulnerable in Nigerian society," the foundation is actively tackling the escalating issue of drug abuse and addiction among Nigerian youth.
THE GROWING CHALLENGE
Drug abuse among Nigerian youth has reached alarming levels, exacerbated by factors such as poverty, unemployment, peer pressure, and easy access to substances. In regions like North East Nigeria, the problem is compounded by years of conflict, displacement, and economic instability. Young people, often unable to access opportunities, fall prey to the allure of drugs, which offers temporary escapism but leads to devastating long-term consequences, including mental health challenges, crime, and societal breakdown.
Wabbas Care Foundation's Approach
The foundation employs a multifaceted approach to combat drug abuse, focusing on prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation.
1. Awareness and Education:
The foundation conducts awareness campaigns in schools, communities, and religious institutions, educating young people about the dangers of drug abuse. Through seminars, workshops, and public lectures, Wabbas Care Foundation ensures that youth and their families understand the risks associated with drug use and the importance of making informed decisions.
2. Rehabilitation Programs:
Recognizing that recovery requires specialized care, the foundation supports and collaborates with rehabilitation centers to provide comprehensive care for affected individuals. These programs include counseling, detoxification, therapy, and skill acquisition to help youth reintegrate into society.
3. Advocacy and Policy Engagement:
Wabbas Care Foundation actively engages with policymakers to strengthen laws against drug trafficking and promote policies that prioritize mental health and substance abuse prevention. Advocacy efforts are also geared toward increasing government investment in youth empowerment programs.
4. Community Empowerment:
The foundation emphasizes skill acquisition and vocational training as tools for youth empowerment. By equipping young people with marketable skills, the foundation reduces unemployment—a major driver of drug abuse.
5. Behavioral Health Focus:
With its emphasis on mental health care, Wabbas Care Foundation integrates psychological support into its initiatives. Recognizing that drug addiction often coexists with mental health disorders, the foundation provides access to mental health services to address underlying issues.
THE NORTH EAST INITIATIVE
Given the high prevalence of drug abuse in North East Nigeria, Wabbas Care Foundation prioritizes this region in its efforts. By working closely with local communities, schools, and religious leaders, the foundation addresses the socio-economic and cultural factors contributing to substance abuse.
IMPACT AND VISION
Through its consistent efforts, Wabbas Care Foundation has impacted countless lives, helping young people overcome addiction and regain hope for a better future. Its fight against drug abuse aligns with its broader mission of reducing poverty, illness, and vulnerability in society.
As the CEO of Wabbas Care Foundation, I call on all stakeholders—families, communities, policymakers, and international partners—to join hands in combating the scourge of drug abuse among Nigerian youth. Together, we can build a healthier, drug-free generation.
Dr. Pius Lawan Wabas
CEO, Wabbas Care Foundation
