Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa (Retd), Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), has issued a directive to all NDLEA commands and formations across the country to immediately crack down on the illegal sale and use of nitrous oxide, commonly known as laughing gas.
Director, Media and Publicity NDLEA headquarters Femi Babafemi said, this action comes in response to the misuse of the gas by individuals for recreational purposes.
Nitrous oxide, a colorless gas primarily used by dentists and medical professionals for sedation and pain relief during minor medical procedures, is increasingly being abused in Nigeria. Referred to as laughing gas or N20, it has gained popularity among young party-goers and thrill-seekers who seek intoxication or a sense of being high. The gas is often transferred from its containers into balloons, which are then inhaled for euphoric effects.
In a statement released on July 11th, the NDLEA highlighted the harmful effects associated with the abuse of nitrous oxide. These effects include dizziness, disorientation, headaches, lightheadedness, fainting spells, hallucinations, loss of consciousness, suffocation due to lack of oxygen, and various neurological complications, particularly psychiatric symptoms.
The NDLEA emphasized its commitment to taking decisive action against anyone involved in the illegal sale or use of nitrous oxide, regardless of their social status, in the interest of public health. While consultations with stakeholders, particularly the Federal Ministry of Health, are ongoing to develop comprehensive measures to address this issue, the agency will not hesitate to apply stringent measures.
The NDLEA urges parents, guardians, and other stakeholders to remain vigilant, stay alert, and warn young individuals against experimenting with or abusing nitrous oxide. The agency highlights the significant threats that such misuse poses to mental and overall well-being.