The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), in partnership with the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), on Thursday commemorated the 2026 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking in Potiskum, Yobe State, with a renewed call for collective action against substance abuse.
Observed annually on June 26 and designated by the United Nations, the day aims to raise awareness about the dangers of drug abuse and promote global efforts toward building drug-free societies.
The 2026 celebration, themed “The World Drug Problem: Persisting Issues, New Challenges and Innovative Responses,” brought together key stakeholders, including the Nigeria Security and Civil Defense Corps (NSCDC), Nigerian Correctional Service, Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), and other agencies to discuss strategies for tackling the growing drug menace.
Speaking at the event, the NDLEA Commander in Yobe State, Mustapha Tajuddin, said the campaign focused on preventing drug abuse and illicit trafficking through awareness, treatment, rehabilitation, law enforcement, and strategic partnerships.
He stressed that the fight against drug abuse requires a united front from all sectors of society.
“Together, let us build a healthy, safe, and drug-free world,” he said, reinforcing the campaign’s message: “Say no to drugs, say yes to life.”
The awareness rally kicked off at the Emir’s Palace in Fika, where the spokesperson to the Emir, Alhaji Adamu Baba, the Ganamun Fika, conveyed the royal father’s support for the initiative.
According to him, the traditional institution remains committed to supporting efforts aimed at curbing drug abuse and its devastating effects on society.
“All the supporting agencies are behind you. The royal father assures you that whenever his attention is needed, the door is open because this is a very big fight that requires a very big effort,” he said.
Also speaking, the Vice Chairman of Potiskum Local Government Area, Alhaji Adamu Ngojin, commended the organizers and urged residents to actively participate in efforts to eradicate drug abuse.
He described substance abuse as a major social problem that fuels other forms of criminality and societal decay.
“We must all join hands to tackle this community illness that serves as the mother of all social vices,” he said.
The Emir of Potiskum, Alhaji Umaru Bubaram Ibn Wuriwa Bauya, also underscored the destructive impact of drug abuse, warning that it remains a root cause of many social and security challenges.
“Drug abuse is the genesis of all problems. We want our society to be aware of the dangers of indulging in drug abuse,” the monarch said.
The event featured a road walk, a public sensitization campaign, and community engagement activities aimed at educating youth and residents about the dangers of substance abuse and the importance of healthy lifestyle choices.
For many participants, the program served as more than a symbolic observance—it was a call to action amid growing concerns over drug abuse among young people.
As the rally drew to a close, one message resonated across Potiskum: a drug-free society is achievable, but only through sustained awareness, collective responsibility, and unwavering vigilance.
SOURCE: NAN
