The Director-General of the Delta State Orientation Bureau, Dr. Fred Oghenesivbe has called for stricter regulation of the creative industry as part of efforts to curb the rising cases of drug abuse among Nigerian youths.
Speaking on Arise Television from Asaba, yesterday, Dr. Oghenesivbe urged the Performing Musicians Association of Nigeria (PMAN) and other stakeholders to step up control over the kind of music and videos released into the market.
According to him, many young people who abuse drugs and other substances are influenced by the lifestyles and habits of celebrities and artistes showcased on television and social media.
“I appeal to PMAN, the Copyright Council and other regulators in the creative industry to step up their game. The kind of music and content pushed into society must be properly censored and approved before release,” he said.
The DG expressed concern over the influence of foreign cultures on Nigerian youths, particularly in fashion, stressing the need to address what he described as negative acculturation.
“Imagine the way some of our girls dress these days. They watch those from Western cultures and want to emulate them. These are trends we need to tackle,” he added.
He further appealed to parents to monitor their children closely, especially in the use of mobile phones, noting that unchecked exposure could derail their upbringing.
“I think the government should introduce laws to censor the kind of music we consume, while parents must also find ways to manage their children’s use of phones. These kids are the future, and if they are not educated and responsible, all that we have built might just collapse,” he warned.
Oghenesivbe also highlighted ongoing efforts by the Delta State Government under Governor Sheriff Oborevwori to curb drug abuse. He said these include intensified awareness campaigns in schools, strategic collaborations, and the provision of enabling infrastructure to support the fight against substance abuse.
