UNODC has launched a new programme for Nigeria as NDLEA warns drug abuse is escalating into a national crisis.
The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) has launched a comprehensive Country Programme for Nigeria covering 2026–2030, aimed at strengthening criminal justice, combating organised crime, promoting public health, and reinforcing the rule of law.
Speaking at the launch in Abuja, UNODC Representative in Nigeria, Cheikh Toure, described the initiative as a critical step toward integrating peace, justice, and development efforts in the country.
He noted that Nigeria stands at a defining moment, stressing its role as Africa’s largest economy and most populous nation, with influence extending beyond its borders.
Toure highlighted key challenges confronting the country, including illicit drug trafficking, transnational organised crime, human trafficking, maritime insecurity, violent extremism, and corruption, noting that these issues continue to impact communities and institutions nationwide.
He explained that the programme is built on extensive consultations with government, civil society, and development partners, and is rooted in respect for Nigeria’s sovereignty and institutional frameworks.
According to him, the initiative focuses on strengthening the criminal justice system, tackling corruption and illicit financial flows, supporting counter-terrorism efforts, addressing organised crime, and promoting public health, particularly in preventing and treating drug use disorders.
He added that the programme prioritises youth inclusion, gender equality, and partnerships across federal, state, and community levels, while also promoting the inclusion of persons with disabilities.
The UNODC official called for strong political commitment and sustained resource allocation to ensure the programme’s success, emphasising the importance of collaboration among stakeholders.
Meanwhile, the Chairman of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Buba Marwa, warned that drug abuse and trafficking in Nigeria have escalated into a serious public health and national security crisis.
Marwa said the drug problem is expanding in scale and complexity, contributing to violent crime, money laundering, and social instability, while posing significant risks to public health.
He disclosed that the agency has adopted a new strategy that combines intelligence-driven enforcement with prevention, rehabilitation, and counselling for drug-dependent individuals.
According to him, this marks a shift from a purely punitive approach to a more human-centred and restorative framework.
Marwa added that the UNODC programme aligns with Nigeria’s priorities to implement data-driven interventions, strengthen institutions, and adopt gender-sensitive strategies in addressing drug-related challenges.
He stressed that success should be measured not only by the volume of drugs seized but by the number of lives saved and communities strengthened.
Calling for broader collaboration, Marwa urged law enforcement agencies, healthcare providers, educators, and civil society groups to work together in tackling the crisis.
He also commended UNODC for the initiative and reaffirmed NDLEA’s commitment to its effective implementation.
