Ibadan: The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has linked the escalating insecurity in Nigeria to sophisticated criminal networks that are using technology, social media platforms, and transnational routes to expand the illicit drug trade. This assertion was made by Mr. Lawal Adetula, the Commander of NDLEA’s Oyo State Command, during a programme held to commemorate the 2026 United Nations International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Adetula, who was represented by Deputy Commander Admin and Logistics, DCN Obiajuru Okoire, emphasized that the global drug trade has evolved beyond traditional patterns of cultivation, production, and trafficking. He highlighted the role of advanced criminal networks in exploiting modern tools to further the drug trade, thereby contributing to insecurity in the region.
Adetula expressed concern over the growing vulnerability of youths who are increasingly becoming targets of the negative consequences of substance abuse, such as poor health, crime, and violence. He reaffirmed the commitment of the NDLEA and other stakeholders to develop new strategies that encompass prevention, treatment, rehabilitation, and community engagement. The approach also includes intelligence-led enforcement, technology-driven interventions, and evidence-based policies to combat the drug menace.
He further stated that the battle against drug-related issues cannot be won by law enforcement agencies alone and requires the collective efforts of government institutions, families, educational establishments, religious organizations, and traditional institutions.
‘Oyo State Command of NDLEA remains committed to pursuing a balanced approach that combines drug supply reduction with drug demand reduction initiatives,’ Adetula said. He added that through sustained sensitization campaigns, school outreach programs, community engagements, treatment, rehabilitation services, and strategic enforcement efforts, the drug menace would be significantly controlled.
In addition, NDLEA Zonal Commander Mr. Obaniyi Sylvester, represented by NDLEA Deputy Zonal Commander Adebimpe Odewale, noted that illicit drug use continues to spread across the country. Sylvester assured that the NDLEA would persist in its efforts to tackle the challenges of drug abuse and trafficking.
In his remarks, Ajanaku Toyin, NDLEA Deputy Commander in charge of Counselling Treatment and Rehabilitation, pointed out the harmful impact of illicit drug abuse on youths who are exposed to it online. Toyin expressed optimism that by adopting innovative methods, counseling, rehabilitation, and collaboration with stakeholders, the problem of illicit drug abuse and trafficking could be eradicated.