Tinubu Calls for Global Action Against Drug Abuse

President Bola Tinubu urgently called on world leaders to combat the growing drug epidemic threatening global health and stability.

Speaking passionately at Abuja’s World Drug Day event on Thursday, he emphasized prevention through this year’s theme “The Evidence is Clear: Invest in Prevention.”

Furthermore, he warned that drug abuse devastates families while fueling crime and poverty across nations.

The President stressed that addiction requires medical treatment rather than punishment, advocating for rehabilitation programs.

Moreover, he called on world leaders to unite and act decisively, emphasizing that collective action is essential to combat this widespread issue effectively.

Represented by Secretary Akume, Tinubu warned that drug abuse destroys families, fuels insecurity, and increases violence in Nigeria.

He stressed that addressing dependence requires support, mental health care, and opportunities for recovery and reintegration.

Marwa warned that drug abuse now pervades schools, homes, and neighborhoods, making prevention a matter of national security.

Citing the 2024 World Drug Report, Marwa noted that global drug use has soared to over 290 million people, a 20 percent increase in ten years.

He warned that without urgent intervention, Africa could see a 40 percent surge in drug use by 2030.

Marwa also referenced Nigeria’s 2018 National Drug Use Survey, which found that 14.4 percent of Nigerians aged 15-64—about 14.3 million people—use drugs, nearly three times the global average.

To confront this crisis, Marwa outlined NDLEA’s three-pronged approach: prevention, rehabilitation, and enforcement.

The agency intensifies its War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) campaign, reaching schools, markets, and workplaces through over 11,000 sensitization programs. Moreover, new drug integrity testing in universities catches problems early.

Additionally, the Save Our Families initiative encourages parents and teachers to remain vigilant.

Furthermore, NDLEA expands rehabilitation efforts, opening 30 treatment centers nationwide and planning more.

Consequently, the agency arrests over 66,000 drug offenders and seizes 11 million kilograms of illicit drugs.

Significantly, it secures 12,000 convictions, including life sentences for major traffickers.

Marwa credits President Tinubu, the National Assembly, and governors for unwavering support.

He also acknowledges international partnerships but stresses the fight continues.

Therefore, he urges parents and communities to invest in prevention, warning that inaction costs more than early intervention.

Ultimately, leaders must act decisively to protect future generations.