The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has raised fresh concerns over the growing menace of drug abuse in Nigeria, warning that the misuse of illicit substances can lead to violent behaviour, hallucinations, mental health disorders, and other life-threatening consequences.

The Deputy Commander of Narcotics, NDLEA Federal Capital Territory Strategic Command, Aliyu Omama, issued the warning while speaking at the 2026 Annual Anti-Drug Summit organised by the Balm for the Bruise Foundation in Abuja. He noted that many incidents of domestic violence, criminal activities, and mental instability are linked to the abuse of psychoactive substances.

Listen: NDLEA's Aliyu Omama on drug abuse and public safety

Omama emphasized that prevention remains the most effective weapon in the fight against drug abuse, urging parents, schools, religious institutions, traditional rulers, youth organisations, and community leaders to play active roles in educating young people about the dangers of illicit drug use.

In her remarks, the Convener of the 2026 Annual Anti-Drug Summit, Princess Ekwi Ajide, also called for stronger collaboration among parents, educators, community leaders and other stakeholders to tackle the growing menace of drug abuse in Nigeria.

Listen: Princess Ekwi Ajide on building a movement against addiction

Ajide described the event as the beginning of a movement dedicated to protecting families, empowering young people and building communities where hope is stronger than addiction.

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