As the fight against drug abuse in Nigeria continues to gain momentum, President Bola Tinubu has called for collective efforts to curb nationwide drug abuse in the country.
President Tinubu, represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, stated that combating drug abuse is a shared responsibility between the government and the national movement and should not be left to the government alone.
President Tinubu made this call on Thursday during the grand finale of a weeklong programme to commemorate the 2025 World Drug Day, held at the Presidential Villa Conference Centre, Abuja.
“It must be a national movement—driven by families, faith leaders, civil society organisations, youth groups, community leaders, businesses, and, crucially, people with lived experience,” President Tinubu said.
In his address, he said that to better tackle this menace, a comprehensive approach needs to be undertaken, while urging the public to promote peace, inclusive development, and uphold human rights.
“We are committed to working hand in hand with all nations to end this menace and tame the illicit trafficking of substances. Together, we can dismantle the systems that sustain this crisis,” President Tinubu added. “Together, we can build a future where prevention is strong, treatment is accessible, and recovery is not just possible—but celebrated.”
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He further praised Brig. Gen. Mohamed Marwa (Rtd) of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and his team for their continuous teamwork, which has attracted support from international partners and Western nations, but urged for even greater global collaboration to bring drug abuse under control.
Marwa stressed that the time to fight is now, as he charged parents, guardians, and governments to step up preventive measures as a wake-up call, noting that Nigeria accounts for more than 230 million people.
He further recounted that seven years ago, Nigeria was known globally as a nation plagued by drug abuse.
NDLEA boss also highlighted that the Tinubu administration has provided initiatives and programmes such as NELFUND, the Three Million Technical Talent (3MTT) programme, national security and War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) advocacy campaigns, all aimed at reducing factors that can lead to drug abuse among youths.
About 11,123 sensitisation programmes have been conducted in schools, workplaces, worship centres, markets, motor parks, and communities, with millions more planned.
Over the past 53 months, 26,393 persons have been counselled and rehabilitated, with over 30 centres currently active.
“Our Operation Offensive Action has yielded tangible results, including the seizure of 11,143,717.44 kg of assorted illicit drugs, with life sentences now being secured in court, while a total of 12,201 offenders have bagged various jail terms within the same time frame,” Marwa noted.
In conclusion, the NDLEA boss extended his appreciation to the agency’s partners and Nigerian government for their consistent efforts as the fight against drug abuse and trafficking continues.
