URGENT UPDATE: Nigeria’s drug abuse crisis is spiraling out of control, prompting an immediate call for a coordinated, whole-of-society response. Femi Babafemi, Director of Media and Advocacy at the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), has emphasized that federal, state, and community stakeholders must unite to tackle this escalating issue.
Speaking with ARISE News earlier today, Babafemi warned that denial of the severity of substance abuse will only exacerbate the situation. “Absolutely, there is no need to live in denial that we have a problem or a challenge of substance abuse in the country,” he stated, referencing alarming findings from the 2018 Drug Use Survey Report. His comments come on the heels of a tragic incident in Lagos Island, where the decomposing body of a young man was recovered from the Opalindi underbridge canal, suspected to be linked to drug use.
Babafemi highlighted the dire consequences of unchecked substance abuse, including potential death. “If one goes deep into it, one of the consequences is likely death, which was very unfortunate in the case of the young man you reported earlier,” he remarked, underlining the urgency of the crisis.
According to the 2025 World Drug Report by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, Nigeria’s drug use rate is a staggering 14.4 percent, almost three times the global average. Millions are currently grappling with drug use disorders, necessitating immediate action.
The NDLEA is addressing the crisis through dual strategies: drug demand reduction and drug supply reduction. “When I talk of drug demand reduction, that is where we lead advocacy to sensitize the public, to raise awareness through our War Against Drug Abuse social advocacy initiative,” Babafemi explained. This initiative encompasses outreach efforts in schools, markets, motor parks, and local communities while collaborating with faith-based groups and civil society organizations.
Babafemi also noted the importance of rehabilitation in the agency’s strategy, stating, “We have 30 treatment and counseling centers across the country today, and by the grace of God, we will be having an additional seven this budget year.” He urged anyone struggling with substance abuse to seek help, stressing that support is available.
In a commendable effort, the Lagos State Government has implemented drug integrity tests for commercial drivers. “That was an awesome initiative by the state. That is getting people to buy in and take ownership of this effort,” Babafemi praised, emphasizing the effectiveness of such programs in raising awareness and creating deterrence.
Babafemi concluded with an urgent message: sustained collaboration across all levels of government and society is essential to reversing Nigeria’s alarming drug abuse statistics. “We cannot rest on our oars. Everybody has a role to play if we are to cut down the demand for illicit substances, especially among our young people,” he affirmed.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, with Babafemi’s insights serving as a wake-up call for action. The need for collective responsibility has never been more critical as Nigeria faces this escalating drug crisis.
