The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) has cautioned that the expansion of the drug trade in Nigeria, fueled by synthetic substances and sophisticated criminal networks, is a major contributor to national insecurity. Cheikh Toure, the UNODC Country Representative, delivered this message during the 2026 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking held in Abuja.
Represented by Dr. Akanidomo Ibanga, the agency highlighted that the global drug landscape is shifting rapidly, creating significant risks to public health and national stability. Toure noted that as a vital regional power, Nigeria is directly impacted by these changes. He emphasized that the connection between illicit economies and insecurity requires a more sophisticated, evidence-based strategy.
The UNODC praised the Nigerian government and the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) for their balanced approach to drug control. Toure stated that the agency is currently assisting Nigeria through initiatives like the Children’s Amplified Prevention Services (CHAMPS), which focuses on long-term prevention. Furthermore, the organization is working to expand access to community-based treatment and improve intelligence gathering to identify emerging synthetic drug threats.
To combat the crisis, the UNODC is advocating for criminal justice reforms that prioritize health-oriented treatments over incarceration. Toure stressed that tackling drug abuse demands a unified effort involving the entire government and society, as these issues are deeply intertwined with unemployment and social instability. The UNODC remains dedicated to providing Nigeria with technical support and strategic partnerships to foster a safer environment.
