NDLEA Warns of Rising Youth Drug Abuse in Cross River

The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has raised alarms about the increasing trend of drug abuse among youths in Cross River State, which poses a serious threat to public health and security. During a press briefing in Calabar on November 26, 2026, CN John Anteyi, the state commander of NDLEA, disclosed that common substances abused include cannabis, tramadol, codeine-based cough syrup, and methamphetamine.

The agency noted that the combination of multiple drugs to achieve stronger intoxication effects significantly heightens the risk of addiction, mental illness, and overdose deaths. Factors contributing to this rise include peer pressure, unemployment, poverty, family instability, social media influence, and easy access to illicit substances.

Between November 2025 and May 2026, the NDLEA seized over 6.5 million kilograms of illicit drugs and arrested 262 suspects, including 207 males and 55 females. Bishop Eyoanwan Otu, chairperson of the state drug control committee, emphasized the need for collective action against drug abuse to protect the future of the youth.