President Bola Tinubu has called for a united, nationwide response to the rising scourge of substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking in Nigeria, declaring it a national emergency that must go beyond government efforts alone.
Speaking through Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, at the grand finale of the 2025 World Drug Day commemorations held Thursday at the Presidential Villa, Abuja, Tinubu said tackling the drug problem requires an all-of-society approach.
“This fight is not for governments alone. It must be a national movement—driven by families, faith leaders, civil society, youth groups, community leaders, businesses, and people with lived experience,” the President said.
He stressed that the root causes of drug abuse—poverty, inequality, and conflict—must be addressed through inclusive development, peacebuilding, and respect for human rights. Tinubu reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to global efforts to combat drug abuse and illicit trafficking, noting the administration’s social investment schemes like student loans and youth empowerment as part of broader prevention strategies.
The President also commended the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and its Chairman, Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (Rtd), for their achievements in reducing drug supply and demand. He noted that their efforts have earned international recognition and increased collaboration from global partners.
In his remarks, NDLEA Chairman Marwa warned that Nigeria remains one of the countries with high drug abuse prevalence. With over 230 million citizens, he said prevention is critical, especially among children and youths.
“Drug abuse is not a distant issue—it is close to home. Parents must be present and vigilant. Teachers must guide and protect young minds,” Marwa said. He added that the NDLEA is intensifying efforts through its War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) campaign, with over 11,000 sensitisation programmes conducted nationwide.
Marwa disclosed that the agency has arrested over 66,000 offenders in the last four and a half years, including 94 identified drug barons, and seized over 11 million kilograms of illicit drugs. He revealed that 30 rehabilitation centres are active, with 26,393 individuals treated so far. Seven new centres are planned for development under the current budget.
Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, described drug abuse as a threat to national security and social stability. He said government has implemented frameworks and strategies aimed at reducing drug production, trafficking, and use.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio, represented by Senator Ibrahim Dankwambo, emphasised that the drug war is not optional. “Every life lost to addiction is a call to arms,” he said.
UNODC Country Representative, Cheikh Toure, described prevention, treatment, and recovery as life-saving investments. “Together, we can break the cycle of drug abuse, organized crime and marginalisation, and build a safer, healthier, and more hopeful Nigeria,” he stated.
