The worsening economic situation in Nigeria is driving more youths into drug abuse, prompting a renewed crackdown by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, (NDLEA).
According to a published report, in Enugu State, many young people, unable to sustain themselves in urban areas, have returned to their villages, only to find life equally challenging. Frustration has led many to seek solace in drugs and alcohol, worsening an already growing crisis.
The Enugu State government has announced plans to establish NDLEA operational bases in all 17 local government areas to combat drug abuse. Commissioner for Local Government Affairs, Deacon Okey Ogbodo, emphasized the need for collaboration with traditional rulers, religious leaders, and youth organizations to tackle the problem.
NDLEA’s Enugu Commander, Abel Sunu Wadahi, revealed that the state has the highest drug abuse rate in the Southeast, with over 400,000 users.
Nationwide, drug-related arrests and seizures have surged. NDLEA seized 2.7 million kilograms of illicit drugs in 2024, up from 1.6 million kg in 2023, with arrests rising from 13,664 to 17,670 in the same period. The Federal Capital Territory and Benue State recorded significant drug-related cases, with hundreds of arrests and convictions.
NDLEA Chairman, Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (retd.), has linked drug abuse to crimes like insurgency and kidnapping. He has called for international support to conduct a new drug use survey, as the last comprehensive study was in 2018.
Cannabis remains the most abused drug in Nigeria, accounting for about 70% of NDLEA seizures. Other common drugs include Tramadol and codeine-based syrups. Large quantities of cannabis are cultivated locally, while synthetic variants are smuggled in from Ghana, Canada, and India.
Despite concerns over increasing drug use, NDLEA spokesperson, Femi Babafemi cautioned that rising arrests do not necessarily indicate a surge in drug abuse, emphasising the need for a new nationwide survey to assess the current trend.
The NDLEA, he said, remains committed to its anti-drug campaign, recently intercepting large shipments of Ghanaian Loud in Lagos and intensifying efforts to dismantle drug cartels across the country.
