Abuja: The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) has warned that the growing drug trade, driven by synthetic substances, evolving trafficking routes and organised criminal networks, is fuelling insecurity in Nigeria.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the UNODC Country Representative, Cheikh Toure, issued the warning at the commemoration of the 2026 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking (World Drug Day) on Friday in Abuja. Toure, represented by Dr Akanidomo Ibanga, Lead, Drug Demand Reduction, UNODC, stated that the issue requires innovative and coordinated responses.
Speaking on the theme, ‘The World Drug Problem: Persisting Issues, New Challenges, Innovative Responses,’ Toure highlighted that the global drug landscape is changing rapidly. He emphasized that synthetic drugs and new trafficking patterns are posing fresh threats to public health, national security and sustainable development. Nigeria, as a strategic regional actor, is not immune to the evolving drug challenge.
He pointed out that the intersection between illicit drug economies and insecurity has made the fight against drug abuse and trafficking more complex, necessitating stronger leadership, reforms and innovation. Toure noted, “The rise of synthetic drugs, evolving trafficking routes, and the intersection between drug economies and insecurity continue to challenge even the most robust systems. Indeed, the implications for public health, national security and sustainable development are profound.”
Toure mentioned that the current realities present an opportunity for governments and stakeholders to adopt more strategic and evidence-based responses. He commended the Federal Government for sustaining a balanced approach to drug control through the integration of supply reduction, demand reduction and respect for human rights.
The UNODC representative also praised the leadership of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), the Federal Ministry of Health and other stakeholders for strengthening Nigeria’s response to the drug problem. He reiterated UNODC’s commitment to supporting the country’s efforts through innovative programmes aligned with global standards and national priorities.
Toure disclosed that UNODC is supporting the institutionalisation of comprehensive prevention systems through the Children’s Amplified Prevention Services (CHAMPS), designed to tackle risk factors before they develop into substance use. This initiative is helping states build sustainable and replicable prevention systems rather than isolated prevention programmes.
He explained that the organisation is also collaborating with government institutions to expand access to quality drug treatment and care by promoting integrated, community-based services that are affordable, accessible and evidence-based. UNODC is strengthening intelligence gathering and data systems, including the establishment of early warning mechanisms capable of detecting emerging drug trends, particularly synthetic substances, to support timely policy decisions.
On criminal justice reforms, Toure stated that the organisation is promoting alternatives to incarceration for people with drug use disorders, emphasizing that health-centred responses produce better outcomes than punitive measures alone. He further revealed that UNODC is leveraging digital technology and capacity-building initiatives to strengthen the capabilities of law enforcement agencies, healthcare providers and social service institutions to respond effectively to emerging drug threats.
The country representative stressed that sustained political commitment, strategic investments and stronger inter-agency collaboration are critical to addressing the drug challenge. He noted that drug abuse and trafficking are closely linked to youth unemployment, organised crime, social vulnerability and other development challenges.
Toure emphasized that addressing the problem requires a whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach. He acknowledged the contributions of civil society organisations, community leaders and people with lived experience, describing them as indispensable partners in developing inclusive and effective drug control policies.
Toure called for greater investment in prevention systems, wider access to treatment and rehabilitation services, stronger law enforcement and deliberate efforts to address the social conditions that expose individuals and communities to drug abuse and trafficking. He reaffirmed UNODC’s commitment to supporting Nigeria through technical assistance, strategic partnerships and innovative solutions aimed at building a safer, healthier and more secure society.
“Together, we can turn today’s challenges into tomorrow’s progress,” he concluded.