Tinubu Pledges to Combat Drug Abuse in Nigeria

President Bola Tinubu, during a grand final celebration marking the 2026 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking in Abuja, reaffirmed Nigeria's commitment to eliminating substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking through innovative interventions. He noted that the consequences of drug abuse extend beyond individual users, severely disrupting families, workplaces, and national security.

Brigadier General Mohammed Buba Marwa, the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), revealed that 5.3 million kilograms of drugs worth N1.5 trillion were seized in the past six months. The National Human Rights Commission expressed grave concern over the rising incidence of drug abuse and trafficking, warning of the serious threats these pose to public health and national security.

Tinubu emphasized the need for a coordinated approach involving education, skill development, and entrepreneurship to create an environment where young Nigerians can thrive, while also calling for stronger border management and enhanced surveillance to disrupt drug supply.