Abusing substances is both dangerous and costly. Millions of people are struggling with addiction in Nigeria, and many people are struggling to quit, but that is not without challenges and setbacks.
In this interview Daily Review has with a former substance abuser, quitting drug is not always as easy as it seems, but it is worth it.
What led you to substance abuse, and how did it affect your life for 16 years?
My journey into substance abuse began with curiosity, fueled by peer pressure and a desire to fit in. At 17, in 2006, lacking adequate information about substance abuse, I succumbed to the temptation. Hanging out with friends who were also my football mates, I was exposed to an environment in Kano where substance use was normalized. Over time, it escalated into a 16-year struggle, impacting relationships, academics, and career opportunities. I faced setbacks, relapses, and darkness, but held onto hope. Eventually, I found recovery, and now I’m dedicated to helping others through advocacy and support.
Can you describe your experiences with relapse, and what ultimately helped you achieve long-term sobriety?
I experienced four relapses during my 16-year struggle with substance abuse, triggered by stress, emotional struggles, toxic colleagues, and environments normalizing substance use. After my last relapse, I sought a new path. I pursued professional help, joined support groups, and surrounded myself with positive influences. A pivotal moment came during the COVID-19 lockdown when I discovered Sheik Ahmad Tijjani Gurumtum’s Islamic tafsirs. His spiritual guidance and insights helped me stay focused and motivated. Through this journey, I’ve learned that recovery is possible with the right support, mindset, and resources.
How did dropping out of school multiple times impact your life, and how did you overcome those setbacks?
Dropping out of school multiple times significantly impacted my life, affecting my academic and career prospects as a journalist and creative writer. It led to feelings of frustration, low self-esteem, and uncertainty about my future. However, after finding recovery, I refocused on my goals and pursued alternative paths to education and personal growth. Through determination and hard work, I was able to rebuild my life and discover new opportunities. My experiences have taught me resilience and the importance of perseverance. Now, I’m dedicated to helping others who may be facing similar challenges.
RECOVERY AND ADVOCACY
What inspired you to found the Niger State Recovery Network, and what goals do you have for the organization?
After achieving sobriety, I founded the Niger State Recovery Network to address the complex issues surrounding substance abuse in Niger State. Our motto, ‘Strength in Anonymity, Unity in Recovery,’ reflects our commitment to creating a safe and inclusive environment for individuals affected by substance abuse.
Our mission is to provide support, resources, and advocacy, fostering a culture of recovery, inclusivity, and compassion. We aim to break down stigmas, challenge systemic barriers, and promote recovery.
We focus on providing support groups and counseling services, raising awareness through campaigns and events, advocating for policy changes, and collaborating with stakeholders. We’re proud to partner with organizations like the NDLEA and healthcare professionals to ensure effective support. By working together, we can create a safer, more compassionate world for individuals struggling with addiction.
How do you plan to use your platform to champion the Don’t Do Drugs, Do Your Dreams campaign nationwide?
As the founder of the Niger State Recovery Network, I plan to leverage our platform to champion the Don’t Do Drugs, Do Your Dreams campaign nationwide. We’ll utilize social media to share inspiring stories and testimonials, partner with influencers, schools, and community organizations to amplify the message, and organize workshops and awareness campaigns to educate youth about substance abuse risks. By collaborating with stakeholders and empowering individuals to pursue their dreams, we aim to inspire a nationwide movement promoting healthy lifestyles, resilience, and goal-oriented living.
What message do you hope to convey through the #ChooseDreamsOverDrugs Choose Life mantra?
Through the #ChooseDreamsOverDrugs Choose Life mantra, I hope to convey that every individual deserves to pursue their dreams and aspirations without the hindrance of substance abuse. This message encourages people, especially youth, to prioritize their goals, well-being, and future over the allure of drugs. By choosing dreams over drugs, individuals can unlock their potential, build resilience, and create a brighter future for themselves and their communities.
HOPE AND RESILIENCE
How did you hold on to hope during your darkest moments, and what advice would you give to others struggling with addiction?
During my darkest moments, I held onto hope by seeking support from loved ones, professionals, and support groups. I also found solace in spirituality, poetry, and farming – these outlets helped me express myself, find peace, and reconnect with nature.
Through this journey, I’ve learned that recovery is possible. My advice to others struggling with addiction would be to seek help without shame or fear, surround yourself with supportive people, focus on small steps towards recovery, practice self-compassion and patience, and hold onto hope, even when it feels like it’s fading.
Never let the breeders of stigmatization get to you. Yes, speaking out to seek help will come with a lot of stigmatization, people distancing themselves, but don’t let that break you – be a warrior. Recovery is a journey, and it’s okay to take it one step at a time.
What role did support systems play in your recovery, and how can others build strong support networks?
Support systems played a crucial role in my recovery. Surrounding myself with understanding and encouraging individuals helped me stay motivated and focused. Support groups, loved ones, and professionals provided a safe space to share my struggles and receive guidance.
To build strong support networks, others can join support groups or online communities, reach out to trusted friends and family, seek professional help from therapists or counselors, and connect with others who share similar experiences. Fostering open and honest communication is also key. A strong support network can make all the difference in navigating challenges and achieving recovery.
How do you plan to continue inspiring others and promoting positive change through your advocacy work?
Through my advocacy work, I plan to continue inspiring others and promoting positive change by sharing my story, supporting those in need, and advocating for policies and initiatives that benefit individuals and families affected by substance abuse. I’ll leverage social media, public speaking, and community outreach to spread awareness and promote a culture of recovery and inclusivity. By empowering others and fostering a sense of community, I aim to create a ripple effect of positivity and inspire a movement towards a more compassionate and supportive world at large.
LOOKING FORWARD
What are your short-term and long-term goals for the Don’t Do Drugs, Do Your Dreams campaign?
For the Don’t Do Drugs, Do Your Dreams campaign, my short-term goals include launching nationwide awareness programs in secondary and tertiary schools and communities, partnering with influencers, stakeholders, and organizations to amplify the message, and creating engaging content to reach a wider audience. Long-term, I aim to establish the campaign as a global movement, expand our reach to rural areas, and develop sustainable support systems for individuals affected by substance abuse. Ultimately, I envision a society where every individual, regardless of their struggles, gets a shot at redemption and the opportunity to pursue their dreams and live a fulfilling life, free from the grip of addiction.
How do you envision your advocacy work impacting communities nationwide?
I envision my advocacy work impacting communities nationwide by inspiring a cultural shift towards a more supportive and aware environment. Through the Don’t Do Drugs, Do Your Dreams campaign, I hope to empower individuals, especially youth, to make informed choices and pursue their passions. By providing resources, support, and a platform for sharing stories, I aim to help communities reduce substance abuse, foster resilience, and promote overall well-being. Ultimately, my goal is to see communities thrive, with individuals living fulfilling lives and reaching their full potential.
What message of hope or inspiration would you like to share with others who may be struggling with addiction or feeling hopeless?
To those struggling with addiction or feeling hopeless, I want to share a message of hope and resilience. You are not alone, and your story is not defined by your struggles. Recovery is possible, and there is light at the end of the tunnel. Don’t give up on yourself – every step forward, no matter how small, is a step towards a brighter future. Hold onto hope, seek support, and believe in your own strength. You are worthy of love, care, and redemption, and your dreams are worth fighting for.
