The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) and the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) have stressed the need for stronger collaboration among governments, communities, families, schools and civil society organisations to combat drug abuse and illicit trafficking.

The call was made ahead of the 2026 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, observed annually on June 26, as both agencies warned that drug-related challenges continue to evolve and require coordinated global and local responses.

They noted that drug abuse and trafficking pose serious threats to public health, national security and socio-economic development. According to them, no single institution can effectively tackle the problem alone, hence the need for joint action built on evidence-based prevention, expanded treatment and rehabilitation services, and stronger enforcement mechanisms.

The agencies further highlighted the importance of engaging young people through awareness campaigns and early intervention programmes aimed at reducing vulnerability to substance abuse.

They added that planned sensitisation activities will focus on community participation and education to promote a drug-free society.

Nigeria has continued to strengthen its response to drug trafficking through improved intelligence sharing and partnerships with international bodies, while the UNODC provides technical support, capacity building and operational assistance to national drug control efforts.

The NDLEA remains Nigeria’s primary agency responsible for combating drug trafficking and preventing drug abuse across the country. Visit www.jocomms.com for more news.