International Day Against Drug Abuse: NDLEA Calls for Stronger Partnerships as Drug Threat Evolves

 International Day Against Drug Abuse: NDLEA Calls for Stronger Partnerships as Drug Threat Evolves

As the world marked the 2026 United Nations International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Lagos Strategic Command, has called for stronger collaboration among governments, educational institutions, parents, civil society organisations and community leaders to tackle the evolving drug menace through prevention, innovation and sustained public awareness.

The Commander of the NDLEA Lagos Strategic Command, ACGN Abubakar Liman Wali, made the call at the grand finale of the 2026 United Nations International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking held at Lagos State University (LASU).

Speaking on the significance of the annual observance, Wali said June 26 is set aside globally to raise awareness of the devastating impact of drug abuse and illicit drug trafficking on individuals, families, communities and nations.

He noted that the 2026 global theme, "The World Drug Problem: Persisting Issues, New Challenges, Innovative Responses," highlights the urgent need for fresh approaches to address emerging drug trends and evolving criminal networks.

According to him, while the NDLEA remains committed to reducing both the supply and demand for illicit drugs through intelligence-led enforcement, public enlightenment, rehabilitation and strategic partnerships, lasting success can only be achieved through collective action.

"Law enforcement alone cannot win this battle. The support of educational institutions, parents, community leaders, faith-based organisations and other stakeholders is indispensable," he said.

The commander explained that universities have a strategic role in shaping responsible citizens, describing them as centres where future leaders are nurtured. He said the establishment of the War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) Clubs in tertiary institutions is a key preventive strategy aimed at empowering students to become advocates against substance abuse through peer education, mentorship and community engagement.

As part of activities marking the global event, the Vice-Chancellor of LASU, Professor Ibiyemi I. Olatunji-Bello, mni, was invested as the Grand Matron of the institution's WADA Club.

Wali said the appointment recognises the Vice-Chancellor's commitment to academic excellence, youth development and healthy living, expressing confidence that her leadership would strengthen anti-drug advocacy among students.

The NDLEA commander also commended the First Lady of Lagos State, Dr. Claudiana Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, for her sustained advocacy against drug abuse through youth-focused initiatives and preventive education programmes.

He equally appreciated Alabikun for supporting the agency's public enlightenment campaigns and community engagement activities through its corporate social responsibility initiatives.

Addressing students, Wali urged them to reject drug abuse and become ambassadors of positive change in their campuses and communities.

"Your future is too valuable to be sacrificed on the altar of substance abuse. Be role models, educate your peers and become advocates for positive change," he said.

He also appealed to parents, lecturers, religious organisations and community leaders to intensify preventive efforts, stressing that prevention remains more effective and less costly than rehabilitation.

Wali reaffirmed the commitment of the NDLEA under the leadership of its Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd.), CON, OFR, to strengthening partnerships that will ensure safer campuses, healthier communities and a drug-free society.

He urged Nigerians to sustain the momentum generated by the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking by embracing shared responsibility in the fight against substance abuse and illicit drug trafficking.