The Asiwaju Dapo Wahab Foundation Inc. has joined the global community in commemorating the 2026 United Nations International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, urging stronger collaboration and innovative responses to the growing challenges of substance abuse and illicit drug trade worldwide.
In a goodwill message marking the observance, the Foundation expressed solidarity with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime and other international stakeholders working to combat the global drug problem and its far-reaching impact on public health, security, peace, and sustainable development.
The Foundation noted that the 2026 World Drug Day theme, “World Drug Problem: Persisting Issues, New Challenges, Innovative Responses,” underscores the urgent need for governments, institutions, and communities to adopt coordinated and forward-thinking strategies in addressing drug abuse and illicit trafficking.
Speaking on behalf of the organisation, its Global President, Alhaji Asiwaju Dapo Wahab, JP, reaffirmed the Foundation’s commitment to building a drug-free society through prevention, education, advocacy, rehabilitation support, and strategic partnerships.
He emphasized that every child deserves a future free from drugs, while young people should be equipped with opportunities to develop their potential and contribute meaningfully to society.
The Foundation further stressed that achieving a drug-free world remains possible if governments, international organisations, civil society groups, educational institutions, faith-based bodies, development partners, and community leaders work together to strengthen prevention systems, expand access to treatment and recovery services, and empower young people through education and life skills development.
Commending the UNODC for its continued leadership in coordinating global anti-drug efforts, the Foundation also highlighted its ongoing initiatives, including awareness campaigns, youth engagement programmes, community sensitisation activities, and stakeholder partnerships aimed at promoting healthy lifestyles and protecting vulnerable populations.
It called on individuals and organisations worldwide to turn advocacy into action by supporting programmes that prevent drug abuse, encourage recovery, and foster safer communities.
Reaffirming its message for the 2026 observance, the Foundation declared: “A Drug-Free World is Achievable. Together, We Can Make It a Reality.”
