The Federal Government has reiterated its commitment to tackling the escalating drug abuse crisis in Nigeria, calling for increased investment in prevention, treatment, and multi-sectoral collaboration.
Speaking at a ministerial press briefing to commemorate the 2025 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare stressed the need for urgent national action. This year’s theme, “The Evidence is Clear: Invest in Prevention!” underscores the growing call for long-term, evidence-based strategies.
Representing the Permanent Secretary, Ms. Daju Kachollom, mni, the Director of the Food and Drug Services Department, Pharmacist Olubunmi Aribeana, warned that drug abuse has become a major public health, security, and developmental challenge in the country.
Quoting the 2018 National Drug Use Survey, Aribeana disclosed that around 14.6 million Nigerians had used drugs for non-medical purposes—placing Nigeria among countries with the highest drug use prevalence in West Africa.
To intensify the national response, she revealed that the Ministry is planning a national summit to bring together all key stakeholders for a comprehensive, united approach to combat drug abuse.
The Permanent Secretary’s speech highlighted collaborative efforts with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), the World Health Organization (WHO), the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), and civil society. Initiatives such as the Medication Assisted Treatment (MAT), already piloted in selected states, are being scaled up nationwide.
Pharmacist Henrietta Bakura-Onyeneke, Director of Narcotics and Drugs Division, also addressed the press, emphasizing the need for harm reduction services such as needle and syringe programs, MAT, and community-based prevention efforts. She advocated for stigma-free and respectful approaches that empower vulnerable populations, particularly youth.
In his remarks, WHO Country Representative, Dr. Alex Gasasira, revealed that 14.4 million Nigerians are estimated to use drugs, with associated health consequences like drug use disorders and mental illnesses. He commended the Ministry’s establishment of 11 model drug treatment centres and adoption of integrated prevention strategies.
Also present at the event, the Institute of Human Virology Nigeria (IHVN), through its Global Fund-supported N-THRIP initiative, outlined its role in delivering harm reduction and integrated health services across ten states. The organization emphasized a holistic approach to tackling substance use, HIV, TB, hepatitis, and gender-based violence.
The event featured goodwill messages from NDLEA and other key partners. It will culminate in a grand finale on June 26 at the State House Conference Centre, organized in collaboration with NDLEA and other stakeholders.
