Salesian Superior Warns Nigerian Youths Have Lost Hope, Resorting to Drug Abuse and Crime

According to the Priest, those who are unable to cope with the pressure and disappointment frequently turn to harmful alternatives.

“Those who cannot manage their stress look for a negative way to help themselves, which is this drugs that we are talking about now. Many of those who cannot control themselves involve themselves in different crimes as well,” he lamented.

The Salesian Superior blamed worsening economic conditions and widespread unemployment for fueling frustration among young people.

“young people finish university but find no work. Even if they get a job, the salary is not enough to cover their living. These things are really frustrating them,” he said.

He called on the Nigerian government to take urgent steps to address the situation by creating opportunities that would enable young people to contribute meaningfully to society and regain confidence in their future.

The Catholic Priest said that amid the challenges, Salesians have continued to expand initiatives aimed at empowering young people in Nigeria through education and vocational training.

Fr. Morba highlighted the congregation’s “Young Africa Initiative,” a free skills-acquisition programme currently operating in Lagos, Onitsha, Gboko, and Kebbi states. “With this project, we are reaching about 800 young people. They learn ICT, tailoring, bakery, hospitality, makeup and many other skills free of charge,” he said. 

Beyond training, participants receive practical support to establish their own businesses and become self-reliant.

“If you learn tailoring, we give you money and modern machines to begin your trade. We pay the instructors, train the young people and then give them starter kits,” Fr. Morba said.

The Salesians also run technical and vocational schools where young people receive training in fields including solar technology, carpentry, electrical engineering, mechanics, and bakery.