Nigeria Commits to Evidence-Based Drug Control Strategy

The Federal Government of Nigeria, represented by Professor Muhammad Ali Pate, who delivered a keynote address on behalf of Mr. Olufowobi Yusuf Adeola from the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, reaffirmed its commitment to implementing a balanced, evidence-based, human-centered approach to drug control.

This commitment was made during the maiden National Drug Use Summit held on July 8-9, 2026, at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel in Abuja. The summit addressed the complex public health issues related to drug use in Nigeria, citing a 2018 UNODC survey that indicated 14.4% of Nigerians aged 15-64 used cannabis, alongside increasing misuse of prescription opioids like tramadol and codeine.

The government aims to ensure that patients suffering from severe pain have access to controlled medicines, while also focusing on reducing stigma and promoting evidence-based treatment for substance use disorders. The initiative includes enhancing pharmaceutical supply chains and collaborating with various sectors to address drug use sustainably.