In recent months, Nigeria has witnessed a concerning surge in the recreational use of nitrous oxide, commonly known as laughing gas, among the youth population. Once a substance reserved for clinical use in medical and dental procedures, laughing gas has become a popular choice for young Nigerians seeking an escape from economic hardships and a means to cope with frustration.
The recreational use of laughing gas has gained traction at Lagos nightclubs and parties, where users can be seen inhaling the gas from balloons. Social media platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Snapchat are flooded with images and videos of individuals holding inflated balloons, often mistaken as symbols of celebration rather than intoxication.
The calming effect induced by laughing gas leads to a short-lived euphoric feeling, resulting in fits of giggles. However, the consequences of its use can be severe, especially for individuals with a history of seizures and respiratory problems. Experts warn that while the substance may seem harmless, it can have fatal outcomes.
The spike in drug culture, including laughing gas abuse, is attributed to a combination of factors, including a shift in societal values where youngsters consider it “cool” to be filmed or appear in live videos using banned substances. Stella Iwuagwu, executive director of the Centre for the Right to Health, a Lagos-based NGO campaigning against substance abuse, suggests that the increase is also a reflection of the prevailing frustration with Nigeria’s economic situation.
The country has been grappling with economic challenges, including a significant devaluation of the currency and a cost-of-living crisis. Policy missteps, the exit of foreign companies, and the collapse of local businesses have contributed to a high unemployment rate, particularly among the youth. With a lack of purpose and limited opportunities, many turn to recreational drugs as a means of escape from the hopelessness they feel.
Seun, a 31-year-old computer technician, shared his experience with laughing gas in an interview with media outlet, highlighting the extreme escape it provides. Despite the high cost of the substance, he and his friends manage to indulge in it every two weeks, pooling their resources to obtain a canister from their supplier.
While laughing gas is not the only recreational drug in use, its popularity is on the rise, and experts warn of potential dangers associated with its abuse. The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Nigeria has reported that more than a third of youths are now involved in drug abuse, with fewer than 250 registered psychiatrists in the country.
The NDLEA launched a crackdown on marketers and users of laughing gas in June, emphasizing the dangers associated with its use. The agency has intercepted significant quantities of nitrous oxide, with three containers bearing over 64,000kg and 8,000 canisters seized at the Apapa seaport. The NDLEA has also made arrests in Imo and Port Harcourt.
Despite these efforts, the trend continues, fueled by the association of drug use with celebrities and the perception that expensive substances are a status symbol. Users like Abidemi, an internet fraudster known as a Yahoo Boy, justify their use of laughing gas as a means to maintain focus and stay awake during their illicit activities.
Health experts, including psychiatrists from the Federal Neuropsychiatric Hospital, emphasize the dangers posed by nitrous oxide. They highlight its potential to cause severe health issues, including neurological damage and even fatalities in cases of overdose. The NDLEA is actively working to create awareness about the risks of laughing gas abuse through traditional means and social media platforms.
While law enforcement plays a crucial role in curbing the illegal sale and use of nitrous oxide, stakeholders stress the importance of collaborative efforts. Organizations, religious institutions, and educational institutions are urged to educate the public about the dangers of laughing gas and promote alternative activities for youth to channel their time and energy positively.
As Nigeria grapples with the rising trend of laughing gas abuse, the focus is not only on enforcement but also on addressing the underlying issues of economic hardship and lack of opportunities for the youth. Without comprehensive efforts to tackle these root causes, the battle against substance abuse, including laughing gas, remains a complex challenge for the nation.