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, was fuelling insecurity in Nigeria.
The UNODC Country Representative, Cheikh Toure, gave the warning at the commemoration of the 2026 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking (World Drug Day) on Friday June 26 in Abuja.
Toure, who was represented by Dr Akanidomo Ibanga, Lead, Drug Demand Reduction, UNODC, said the global drug landscape was changing rapidly, noting that Nigeria, being a strategic regional actor, was not immune to the evolving drug challenge.
According to him, the intersection between illicit drug economies and insecurity has made the fight against drug abuse and trafficking more complex, requiring stronger leadership, reforms, coordinated responses, and innovation.
While highlighting initiatives and programmes supported by the UNODC towards tackling drug-related issues, the country representative stressed that sustained political commitment, strategic investments, and stronger inter-agency collaboration were critical to addressing the drug challenge.
He noted that drug abuse and trafficking were closely linked to youth unemployment, organised crime, social vulnerability and other development challenges.
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.
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