Buba Marwa, chairman of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), says the rising rate of drug and substance abuse poses a serious threat to Nigeria’s security, economy, and social stability.
Marwa recently made this statement in Abuja at the third annual “Fly Above the High” conference organised by the Recovery Advocacy Network.
Represented by Julius Dzer, the FCT strategic commander of the agency, Marwa said the impact of drug addiction goes beyond individual users, affecting families, communities, and national development.
According to him, the NDLEA has strengthened strategies to combat drug supply while also reducing demand.
“It affects our brains and makes it difficult to recover. It hinders the advancement of youth, affects families, and damages society,” Marwa said.
“It impacts personal development, societal growth, the economy, and national security.
“Do not attempt to experiment with drugs. Do not start. It offers no benefit to anyone.”
Meanwhile, Boni Haruna, former minister of youth development, stressed the importance of collective responsibility in tackling addiction.
“Influence is stronger than intention. The people you associate with matter. Addiction is not only disruptive—it is destructive,” he said.
“Nobody succeeds in life when addicted to drugs because it takes control of the mind and entire system. Eventually, such individuals become a burden to themselves, their families, and society.”
He added that the fight against drug abuse should not be left solely to advocacy groups without broader societal involvement.
Also speaking, Adekunle Adesina, president of the Recovery Advocacy Network, emphasised the urgency of addressing substance use disorders.
“When we act quickly instead of remaining silent, we can prevent the situation from worsening. Addiction should not be treated as a family secret but as a medical and social emergency requiring immediate and bold action,” he said.
