From :Femi Oyelola in Kaduna*
The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) has officially recognized Kaduna State as the national benchmark for drug prevention and treatment. The organization praised the state’s bold reforms and comprehensive approach to addressing substance abuse and mental health challenges.
In a letter personally signed by UNODC Country Representative Mr. Cheikh Toure and addressed to Governor Uba Sani, the agency commended Kaduna for its “remarkable strides” in enhancing both institutional and community-based interventions.
The letter emphasized the state’s groundbreaking transition from the Kaduna Bureau of Substance Abuse, Prevention, and Treatment to the fully integrated Kaduna State Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Agency (KadSAMHSA).
According to UNODC, Kaduna’s unified structure, which combines mental health and substance use interventions under one coordinated agency, aligns with global best practices and is recognized as one of the most effective regional models in Nigeria.
UNODC also highlighted the state government’s strong focus on prevention, treatment, rehabilitation, and public education, supported by multisectoral coordination, community outreach, and psychosocial support. This balanced and holistic approach reflects forward-thinking governance and a genuine commitment to comprehensive drug control.
The UN agency revealed that several states, including Yobe, Borno, Bayelsa, and Kwara, have sought UNODC’s guidance on replicating the well-regarded “Kaduna Model,” which is now considered a standard for a sustainable and effective drug response across the country.
This growing interest reinforces Kaduna State’s reputation as a national leader and innovator in public health reform and social reintegration efforts.
Reaffirming its support, UNODC assured that it will continue to provide technical assistance, capacity building, and program linkages to national and regional drug control strategies. The agency pledged to strengthen its partnership with the State Government and KadSAMHSA to advance evidence-based prevention and treatment systems.
