The Anti-Kidnapping, Human Trafficking, Child Abuse and Drug Abuse Initiative (AKH-TRACADA), a non-governmental organisation, has called for increased investment in drug abuse prevention efforts across Nigeria.
Its Founder and Executive Director, Primate Belonwu Ezeanyaeche, made the call in a statement issued on Monday in Abuja to commemorate the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.
The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) had earlier flagged off a week-long observance with a press conference on Wednesday, June 18, in collaboration with the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), dedicating Monday, June 23, as NGOs’ Day.
The 2025 theme for World Drug Day is: “The Evidence is Clear: Invest in Prevention.”
Ezeanyaeche expressed strong support for the NDLEA, applauding the agency for spotlighting the work of civil society organisations during the anti-drug awareness week.
He said the gesture would further strengthen collaboration between government institutions and grassroots actors working to curb drug abuse.
“Only a proactive, community-driven approach can address the root causes of drug abuse and trafficking—especially among young people,” he stated.
He urged all levels of government, stakeholders, and the private sector to prioritise prevention strategies as a sustainable solution to the drug crisis.
“Drug abuse continues to destroy the future of our youth and weaken the fabric of our society.
The evidence is clear—investing in prevention reduces crime, saves lives, and strengthens families.
Our communities must no longer treat drug use as a hidden issue but one that demands bold, early, and sustained intervention,” he said.
Ezeanyaeche stressed that prevention is not only possible but also the most effective and cost-efficient approach, citing AKH-TRACADA’s experience working in vulnerable communities.
“We have seen young people turn away from drugs after receiving education, support, and alternative pathways. The time has come to shift more resources toward prevention—not just enforcement and rehabilitation,” he added.
He highlighted the organisation’s contributions, including:
- Community sensitisation campaigns
- Youth mentorship programmes
- School outreach initiatives
- Provision of psychosocial support for drug-dependent individuals
“Our ongoing work in schools, rural communities, and with at-risk youth involves counselling, sensitisation, and empowerment. We also refer cases for rehabilitation and collaborate with law enforcement to reduce drug demand at the grassroots,” Ezeanyaeche explained.
He reaffirmed AKH-TRACADA’s commitment to partnering with the NDLEA and other relevant agencies in the fight against drug abuse and related crimes.
He also called for integrating drug education into school curricula, greater parental involvement, and the establishment of community-based prevention programmes nationwide.
“While enforcement remains critical, it cannot work in isolation. The future lies in prevention. Nigeria must invest in protecting its most valuable resource—its young people,” he concluded.
The International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, marked globally on June 26, is a yearly call to action for nations to confront the growing challenge of drug abuse, especially among youth.
