The Archbishop of African Church Cathedral Bethel, Abuja, Most Rev. Peter Ogunmuyiwa, has identified poor parental supervision as a major factor contributing to the increasing rate of drug abuse and other social vices among young people.
Speaking in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Monday in Abuja ahead of the 2026 United Nations International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, Ogunmuyiwa stressed the need for parents to take a more active role in raising their children.
The annual observance, marked globally on June 26, is themed: “The World Drug Problem: Persisting Issues, New Challenges and Innovative Responses.”
According to the cleric, parents must remain vigilant and closely monitor their children’s activities, friendships, and general lifestyle to prevent them from falling into harmful behaviours.
He expressed concern that many parents had become detached from the daily lives of their children, exposing them to the risks of substance abuse, criminal conduct, and other negative influences.
Ogunmuyiwa also highlighted the growing influence of social media and digital platforms on young people, urging parents to pay attention to the content their children consume online and the values shaping their decisions and behaviour.
“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.
“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.
The archbishop emphasised that teaching children the fear of God remains one of the strongest protections against drug abuse and other harmful behaviours.
He noted that churches also have a critical role to play by supporting parents through counselling, mentorship, moral instruction, and spiritual guidance for young people.
Describing the church as a source of hope and transformation, Ogunmuyiwa said faith-based institutions could help individuals overcome addiction and navigate other personal challenges.
He called on religious organisations to strengthen efforts aimed at promoting positive values and building stronger family units.
The cleric further urged Nigerians to show understanding and support toward people struggling with substance abuse rather than subjecting them to stigma and discrimination.
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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.
“Jesus hates sin but loves sinners. Those struggling with addiction should not lose hope because transformation and recovery are possible,” he said.
He encouraged individuals battling drug dependence to seek assistance and embrace opportunities for change, describing intervention as a pathway to recovery and a better future.
Ogunmuyiwa added that churches should continue providing both spiritual and emotional support to those working to break free from addiction.
The archbishop also praised the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for its continued efforts to curb drug abuse and illegal drug trafficking across the country.
According to him, the agency has made significant sacrifices in safeguarding communities from the threats posed by illicit substances.
He urged NDLEA personnel to remain committed to their duties and called on the public to support the agency’s work, stressing that tackling drug abuse requires cooperation among families, religious bodies, communities, and government institutions.
Ogunmuyiwa offered prayers for NDLEA officers, asking God to grant them strength, protection, and rewards for their service to the nation.
He also prayed for parents and families, seeking divine wisdom and strength for them to raise responsible children who would make meaningful contributions to society.
The cleric further prayed for Nigeria’s continued peace, unity, security, and development, expressing optimism about the country’s future.
He urged citizens to work collectively toward promoting moral values and building a society free from drug abuse and other social vices.