President Bola Tinubu has reaffirmed Nigeria’s unwavering commitment to eliminating the menace of substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking through evidence-based, innovative interventions.
Mr Tinubu gave the assurance in Abuja on Friday during the grand finale of celebrations, marking the 2026 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.
The President, represented by the Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, emphasised that the evolving nature of the global drug problem demands constant vigilance, adaptability, and collective action.
He noted that the consequences of the drug scourge extend far beyond individual users, severely disrupting families, schools, workplaces, and overall national security.
He said the federal government is confronting these challenges through a well-coordinated, multi-faceted approach.
“My administration remains committed to creating an environment in which 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 interventions that address some of the underlying factors that make individuals vulnerable to substance abuse and criminal recruitment.
“At the same time, we recognise that reducing demand must be matched by decisive action to disrupt supply,” Mr Tinubu said.
This, he said, requires stronger border management, enhanced surveillance of ports, airports, seaports and land crossings, improved intelligence gathering and closer collaboration among national, regional and international law enforcement agencies.
“Criminal organisations operate across borders, and our response must be equally coordinated and effective,” he added.
He noted that science, technology and reliable data have become indispensable tools in this effort.
“We must continue to strengthen our capacity to collect, analyse and apply data so that emerging trends are identified early, interventions are properly evaluated, and strategic decisions are informed by facts.
“As illicit drug markets 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 continue to receive the support it needs to deal effectively with drug-related crimes. Law enforcement officers, investigators, prosecutors and the courts all have important roles to play in ensuring that criminal organisations are disrupted and offenders are held accountable under the law”, he added.
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Speaking further, he said the complexity and scope of the drug problem demand that every segment of society plays an active role.
“We call on parents and families to provide loving homes, moral guidance, and open communication; on our educational institutions to strengthen drug prevention education and character development; on religious and traditional leaders to continue using their influence to discourage substance abuse while supporting those in recovery,” he said.
He urged the media to raise awareness responsibly and avoid glamorising drug use.
The president also called on the private sector to partner with the government through job creation, prevention initiatives, and support for treatment and rehabilitation programmes.
“Together, through collective action and shared responsibility, we can protect our youth, strengthen our communities, and secure a healthier and safer future for Nigeria,” he said.
