President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to combating substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking through evidence-based policies, innovation, and stronger collaboration among stakeholders.
Tinubu gave the assurance on Friday in Abuja at the grand finale of activities marking the 2026 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.
Represented by the Attorney-General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Mr Lateef Fagbemi (SAN), the President said tackling drug abuse requires a united national effort.
Speaking on the 2026 theme, “The World Drug Problem: Persisting Issues, New Challenges, Innovative Responses,” Tinubu said the rapidly evolving global drug landscape demands vigilance, adaptability, and coordinated action.
He warned that substance abuse poses far-reaching consequences beyond individual users, disrupting families, schools, workplaces, and national security.
According to him, the Federal Government is implementing a coordinated, multi-pronged strategy to address both the root causes and consequences of drug abuse.
“My administration remains committed to creating an environment where young Nigerians can thrive and succeed.
“Through the Renewed Hope Agenda, we are expanding access to education, promoting skills development, supporting entrepreneurship, creating employment opportunities, and implementing social intervention programs.
“These initiatives address some of the underlying factors that make individuals vulnerable to substance abuse and criminal recruitment,” he said.
Tinubu stressed that reducing drug demand must be matched by aggressive efforts to curb supply through stronger border security, tighter surveillance at airports, seaports, and land borders, and improved intelligence gathering.
He also called for deeper collaboration among national, regional, and international law enforcement agencies.
“Criminal organizations operate across borders, and our response must be equally coordinated and effective,” the President said.
Tinubu underscored the growing importance of science, technology, and reliable data in the fight against illicit drug trafficking.
“We must strengthen our capacity to collect, analyze and utilize data so emerging trends are detected early, interventions properly evaluated and strategic decisions guided by evidence.
“As illicit drug markets continue to evolve, our ability to detect and identify drugs and precursor chemicals must evolve as well.
“Strengthening forensic laboratories, enhancing technological capabilities, and supporting scientific research will remain essential if we are to stay ahead of emerging threats.
“Our criminal justice system must also continue to receive the support it needs to deal effectively with drug-related crimes,” he added.
The President commended the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), led by its Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Brig.-Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), for its sustained crackdown on drug trafficking.
“I commend the officers, men, and leadership of the NDLEA under the able leadership of Brig.-Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd).
“Their dedication, courage, and professionalism have produced remarkable successes in reducing both drug supply and demand, earning Nigeria recognition and respect across Africa and the international community,” Tinubu said.
Describing the global drug problem as a shared challenge, the President urged civil society organizations, international partners, and citizens to strengthen collaboration in building safer, healthier, and drug-free communities.
Earlier, NDLEA Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Brig.-Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd), reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to the global fight against drug abuse and illicit trafficking.
Marwa described the drug menace as one of the greatest threats to public health, national security, social stability, and human development.
“In the face of these sophisticated threats, the NDLEA has not blinked. We remain resolute.
“Over the past year, the agency has recorded monumental operational successes through intelligence-driven enforcement, dismantling previously untouchable drug syndicates and making unprecedented seizures across airports, seaports, land borders, forests and communities,” he said.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event was attended by representatives of the Federal Ministry of Health, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), the World Health Organization (WHO), security agencies, traditional rulers, diplomats, academics, and students.
The International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, observed annually on June 26, was established by the United Nations to strengthen global action and cooperation toward a world free of drug abuse and illegal drug trafficking.
SOURCE: NAN
