Small Doctor Mourns Rising Drug Use Among Youths: ‘Saw Talented Men Nodding Off Standing Up’
Afrobeats star Small Doctor recently voiced his distress over the growing drug abuse problem plaguing Nigerian youths. Taking a stroll through his old neighbourhood in Agege, the singer was confronted with a grim reality that left him deeply unsettled.
During his visit, Small Doctor spotted several young men — once full of promise and potential — now struggling so heavily under the influence of drugs that they were literally nodding off while standing. Some even fell into strange, awkward poses mid-sleep. This haunting sight struck a painful chord with the artist.
He shared this somber experience on his social media, highlighting the urgent need for stronger campaigns against substance abuse. Reflecting on advice he received six years ago from veteran musician Wasiu Ayinde, Small Doctor recalled being told to set up a rehabilitation centre, with Wasiu predicting it would become a profitable venture as drug addiction worsened.
Small Doctor wrote, “There’s a guy who sings against drug abuse on socials — can’t quite remember his full name, David something — but his message feels more necessary than ever right now. On my recent walk through the hood, what I witnessed was truly heartbreaking. The rate at which young guys are using drugs is shocking.
“Wasiu Ayinde once told me establishing a rehab centre would be like discovering a new oil field. That man clearly foresaw this crisis. The saddest moment was seeing the promising lads we grew up with, sleeping while standing, some in bizarre postures. It’s so painful.”
Small Doctor’s reflections serve as a powerful call to action, urging more awareness and support for tackling drug abuse in communities across Nigeria.