Stakeholders Advocate Comprehensive Action to Address Drug Abuse in Nigeria
Written By Dedeigbo Samson Ayodeji, Oyewole Oluwatofunmi
Posted By Town Crier News Nigeria
Published By Fitness Network Communications
CN Abubakar Liman Wali, Commander of the NDLEA Lagos Strategic Command, has called for a unified and strategic approach to combat drug abuse in Nigeria. Speaking at a recent sensitization program, Wali emphasized the importance of enhancing leadership skills and fostering collaboration among stakeholders to create a drug-free society.
“The primary objective of this gathering is to strengthen our leadership capabilities, improve intelligence sharing, and build a favorable network that supports a safer and healthier nation,” he stated. He lauded the efforts of facilitators and partners, whose expertise and support have contributed significantly to the ongoing fight against drug abuse. Wali urged participants to actively contribute their insights, emphasizing that tackling drug abuse requires everyone’s commitment.
Photo Caption From L-R ACGN Stella Ngwoke Deputy Director Directorate of Seaport Operation NDLEA,CN Abubakar Liman Wali, Commander of the NDLEA Lagos Strategic Command, ACGN Ibiba Odili Coordinator National Drug Control Master plan Secretariat, ACGN Maria Ilugbuhi Master Trainer,UNODC
Maria Ilugbuhi, another prominent speaker, highlighted the alarming rate of drug abuse among young people, attributing it to factors such as peer pressure, poverty, and lack of education. She stressed the importance of equipping young adults with essential life skills like goal-setting, decision-making, and social interactions. According to her, these skills not only empower individuals to resist peer pressure but also reduce the likelihood of drug use.
“We must address the curiosity of young minds without exposing them to harmful details about drugs. The adolescent brain is inquisitive, and care must be taken during sensitization efforts,” she cautioned.
Ilugbuhi lamented the barriers to accessing drug treatment in Nigeria, noting that high costs, stigma, and lack of information prevent many from seeking help. States like Yobe, Imo, Bayelsa, and Lagos reportedly face the most significant challenges. Despite some free or subsidized services provided by organizations, treatment remains out of reach for many, particularly in impoverished areas.
She also referenced the findings of the 2018 National Drug Use Survey, which revealed that approximately 14.3 million Nigerians, 14.4 percent of the population, use substances excluding alcohol and tobacco. Ilugbuhi warned of an increase in drug users if the underlying causes, including socio-economic problems and globalization, are not urgently addressed.
Photo Caption Maria Ilugbuhi, taking the first Lecture
ACGN Ibiba Odili, Coordinator of the National Drug Control Master Plan Secretariat, emphasized the critical role of families in preventing drug abuse. According to her, parents must model good behavior and monitor their children’s social circles, as dysfunctional family environments often contribute to drug use.
“Training a child is the primary function of the family, followed by schools. Whatever the NDLEA does is secondary, such as public education and awareness campaigns,” Odili explained. She further stressed the need for culturally sensitive advocacy, timely implementation of initiatives, and improved collaboration across enforcement agencies.
Odili described the National Drug Control Master Plan as a strategic roadmap addressing all aspects of drug use in Nigeria. Its goal, she explained, is to improve health and security while addressing physical, social, and mental health challenges. She also highlighted the importance of reducing stigma and ensuring that drug prevention and treatment programs are evidence-based.
Mrs. Stella, Deputy Director of Seaport Operations at the NDLEA, elaborated on the agency’s efforts to regulate drug supply and prevent abuse. She noted that while recent operations have successfully intercepted shipments of illicit substances, the problem persists due to the increasing circulation of drugs.
“Destroying cannabis farms and drug laboratories, alongside regulating the sale of legal substances like alcohol and tobacco, are crucial steps in combating drug abuse,” Stella stated. She also emphasized the connection between drug use and diseases like HIV and hepatitis, particularly among individuals who inject drugs.
Photo Caption Officers in a group Photo Section
Stella acknowledged that not all drug users are dependent, with some managing to function in their daily lives. However, she warned that drug dependency often leads to long-term health and moral issues, making prevention and early intervention critical.
The speakers unanimously called for a multi-pronged approach to tackle drug abuse in Nigeria, advocating for increased investment in education, job creation, and awareness campaigns. Sensitization efforts, they argued, must target not only young people but also adults, leaders, and influencers who can help foster prevention.
As Nigeria grapples with the escalating drug crisis, stakeholders are united in their commitment to implementing a coordinated response that prioritizes prevention, treatment, and enforcement. By addressing the socio-economic factors fueling drug use and improving access to treatment, they believe the nation can move closer to achieving a healthier and drug-free society.
