As the world commemorates the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking today, June 26, 2025, the Community Health and Research Initiative (CHR) has called for stronger multi-level action against the rising tide of substance abuse in Nigeria.
This was made known in a statement issued by Nafisa Shehu Ibrahim, the Executive Administrator of CHR. She emphasized that this day, established by the United Nations, reminds us of the urgent need to confront the health and social crisis caused by drug abuse.
According to Nafisa, substance abuse includes the misuse of illegal drugs and prescription medications such as tramadol, codeine, and rohypnol, as well as sniffing harmful substances like glue or gasoline. She noted that while the impact on individuals is severe, the broader damage to society is equally alarming.
She added that drug abuse is a growing public health concern that contributes to rising mental illness, organ damage, and social decay—manifesting in crimes like burglary, violence, and youth thuggery.
*Worrying Statistics from 2025*
CHR highlighted recent figures that underscore the scale of the crisis. Nafisa referenced data from the NDLEA reported by Leadership Newspaper showing 4,803 drug-related arrests in Q1 2025, with 1,056 convictions—up from just 330 in 2024.
She noted that in just three months, over 4,300 males and nearly 480 females were arrested, while dangerous opioids worth ₦6.52 billion were seized at Nigerian seaports. In Kano alone, over 50 arrests were made within two months.
“Drug abuse doesn’t only destroy lives medically, it dismantles communities,” Nafisa said. She stressed that addiction causes lasting damage to the brain, heart, and kidneys, while also fueling criminal behavior and social unrest.
*CHR’s Recommendations*
Nafisa outlined clear recommendations for action:
• Government: Increase NDLEA funding, build more rehab centers, and strengthen drug prevention laws.
• Youth Empowerment: Create meaningful opportunities through education and employment.
• Parents: Be actively involved in children’s lives and choices.
• Faith Leaders: Use their platforms to speak against drugs.
• Schools: Teach drug awareness and mental health from early years.
• NGOs & Civil Society: Drive outreach, support recovery, and reduce stigma.
• Communities: Report hotspots and support recovering users without discrimination.
She concluded by reaffirming CHR’s commitment to a drug-free society, stating, “Every sector has a role to play—and the time to act is now.”
