A VISUAL CAMPAIGN AGAINST USE AND ADDICTION OF ILLICIT METHAMPHETAMINE (MKPURU MIRI) AMONG THE YOUTHS IN OWERRI, SOUTH EASTERN NIGERIA

Abstract

South Eastern Nigeria through Media reports indicate that methamphetamine (mkpurummiri) use is growing among young people in South Eastern Nigeria, but empirical research has not beenconducted, also the local production of illicit drug (crystal meth.) in remote areas is one of the major parameters that increased the availability and affordability thereby promoting
unprecedented increase in the use of the drug, while motivating the user’s involvement into social deviance activities like stealing, rape and others. Therefore, this research work intends to reawaken our unconsciousness over the dangers associated the use of illicit chemical substances and represent a wide spectrum of visual approaches to understanding the risk, and social disadvantages for the consumption of such chemical substance (Crystal Meth # Mkpurummiri) .
This study used an empirical research method and questionnaires to determine methamphetamine
prevalence within Owerri metropolis, the sources, motivations for use, and consequences in South
Eastern Nigeria. These findings facilitated the design for effective intervention campaigns [photography and video – Visual communication for integrated advocacy] to reduce the growing trend. Efforts to discover and dismantle illegal laboratories should not only focus on cities becausel laboratoriesset up to evade detection may exist in rural settings. It is vital that the government work with all stakeholders to increase public awareness over the dangers associated with methamphetamine use among the users and develops mechanisms to support addiction treatment and rehabilitation to prevent social stigma users may face.

Keywords: visual campaign, Addiction, Illicit, Methamphetamine, Youths