NDLEA Raises Alarm Over Youth Drug Abuse Surge in Nigeria

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency has raised concerns over rising substance misuse among Nigerian youths, calling for joint national action.
NDLEA Commander in Gombe State, Adamu Karami, spoke during a public awareness campaign marking the 2026 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.
The sensitisation exercise, held in partnership with the MTN Foundation, the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) and other stakeholders, highlighted the need for drug abuse prevention among young people.

Karami stressed stronger partnerships to tackle the growing threat, noting that drug abuse prevention must involve families, schools, religious bodies and communities.
He reaffirmed NDLEA’s commitment to enforcement and public enlightenment campaigns aimed at sustaining drug abuse prevention across Nigeria.

The Manager of Impact Reporting at the MTN Foundation, Mary Ogunbodede, said the organisation remains committed to empowering youths and addressing social challenges.
She emphasised that continuous sensitisation and drug awareness campaign efforts are vital in supporting informed choices and positive behavioural change among youths.

Also speaking, National Youth Service Corps member Miss Sarah Paul advised young people to avoid illicit substances and focus on personal development.
“Drug abuse destroys dreams and limits opportunities. Young people must make informed choices and avoid anything that could jeopardise their future,” she said.

The event featured an awareness walk from Federal College of Education through Gombe metropolis streets to Gombe State University, with participants carrying placards promoting drug abuse prevention.
The campaign aims to strengthen community-led drug awareness campaign efforts and protect young Nigerians from substance misuse.

How can communities work better together to reduce youth drug abuse?