The Catholic Archbishop of Abuja Diocese, Most Rev. Ignatius Kaigama, has issued a stern warning to families, urging them to keep a closer watch over their children as cases of drug-induced mental health crises continue to escalate.
Speaking at the Catholic Women Organisation Reunion in Abuja on Saturday, Archbishop Kaigama expressed deep concern over the increasing number of teenagers and young adults “drifting into ruin through the deceptive influence of peers.”
“We cannot monitor them like law enforcement, but parents must maintain a keen and loving eye.
“A small smoke, a small drink, just one careless moment, can destroy an entire future,” he cautioned.
The clergyman lamented the rising incidents of mental breakdowns among youths as young as 18, highlighting the emotional and financial burden that families now face.
He called on parents to regularly engage with schools, oversee holiday activities, and foster open communication with their children to combat the growing issues of addiction and psychological collapse.
Shifting to national matters, Archbishop Kaigama addressed the ongoing discussions regarding Nigeria’s classification as a “country of particular concern” due to the ongoing killings and religiously motivated violence.
He stated, “The issue is not who is killing whom; the real question is: what can we do to stop these killings?”
He urged the government to cultivate a stronger culture of accountability, expressing hope that leaders would act swiftly to protect citizens and ensure that perpetrators are brought to justice.
Archbishop Kaigama remarked, “Every Nigerian life, whether Christian or Muslim, matters before God,” emphasising the need for national leaders to prioritise human life over political expediency.
He also highlighted positive developments within the Archdiocese.
The clergyman praised the outgoing president of the Archdiocesan Association, Ebelechukwu Okoye, and her team for their dedication to community service.
He encouraged the community to emulate these initiatives, noting that the boreholes providing clean water to neglected villages illustrate how citizens can make a difference.
Archbishop Kaigama stated, “These women have demonstrated humility, kindness, and loyalty.
“They have served our people well, and I pray that the next group will continue, or even surpass, their good works.”