By Femi Oyelola
The relationship between drugs and crime has been a subject of intense media coverage for decades. While it is widely acknowledged that drugs and criminal activities are interconnected,
Investigations revealed that the relationship between drugs and crime is intricate and multifaceted, encompassing individual, social, and systemic factors.
Weekend Peoples Daily findings show that substance abuse and drug-related crimes have far-reaching consequences that affect individuals, families, and communities. By adopting a comprehensive approach that includes prevention, treatment, harm reduction, and policy reform, societies can work towards breaking the cycle of drug-related crime and fostering healthier and safer communities.
It is imperative to recognize the interplay between drugs and crime and work collaboratively to address this complex issue effectively, it has been suggested.
No doubt, Nigeria is grappling with the tragic consequences of drug abuse, particularly among its youth.
“The 2018 National Drug Use Survey conducted by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) revealed an alarming reality: 14.3 million Nigerians aged 15–64 use psychoactive substances. Even more disturbing is the fact that one in four drug users in Nigeria is female, while one in five suffers from drug use disorder.”
The Northwest region of the country has been in the news currently, no thanks to the insecurity bedeviling the region.
There is no gainsaying that the region comprising seven states, namely Kaduna, Kano, Jigawa, Sokoto, Kebbi Zamfara, and Katsina, has suffered tremendous setbacks due to the prevailing insecurity.
Chairman/Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brig Gen Mohammed Buba Marwa Rtd, during the Flag -Off the Northwest Geopolitical Zone campaign against the use of illicit drugs, presents an even more concerning picture.
He said With an estimated 25 million people in 2016, this zone remains the most populous in Nigeria. The survey estimated that 12% of the region’s population—approximately three million people—are drug users.
The most commonly abused substances, according to him, include cannabis, followed by the non-medical use of opioids such as tramadol, codeine, and morphine, as well as cough syrups containing codeine or dextromethorphan.
The NDLEA Boss presents a state-by-state breakdown of drug use prevalence in the North-West which shows that Kano has the highest rate at 16.0%, with approximately 1,070,000 drug users, followed by Zamfara at 13.5% (312,000 users), Kebbi at 12.6% (286,000 users), Katsina at 12.0% (481,000 users), Kaduna at 10.0% (462,000 users), Sokoto at 9.0% (230,000 users), and Jigawa at 7.0% (211,000 users).
These figures, he surmised, are deeply troubling and underscore the urgent need for collective action to combat drug abuse and its devastating consequences.
“The North-West, like other regions of Nigeria, has seen a surge in drug-related crimes, addiction, and social decay. Drug abuse is not merely a law enforcement issue—it is a public health crisis, a social problem, and an economic burden.
“Its effects ripple through families, schools, workplaces, and communities, leading to health crises, lost productivity, financial strain on families and the healthcare system, and increased security threats.
“There is a strong link between drug abuse and criminal activities such as banditry, terrorism, kidnapping, and murder.
“However, beyond the crime statistics, we must recognize the human cost of this epidemic—addiction, broken homes, lost opportunities, mental health crises, preventable deaths, and an
overburdened healthcare and justice system. These are not just numbers—they are our children, brothers, sisters, and friends, their potential squandered by addiction.”
Similarly the Speaker of the House of Representatives Rt.Hon Abbas Tajudeen, who was the convener said the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency had reported a 25 percent rise in drug abuse in the Northwest over the past three years.
In Kaduna State alone, NDLEA lamented that statistics indicates a 28 percent increase in drug seizures in 2023 compared to the previous year, while similar troubling trends have been observed in Katsina, Kano, Sokoto, Zamfara, Jigawa, and Kebbi.
He opined that in these states, law enforcement agencies are contending with a surge in the availability and consumption of illicit substances, which threatens public safety and undermines socioeconomic stability.
The Speaker expressed dismay that equally concerning is the scourge of domestic violence that continues to ravage families and communities across the nation, particularly in the region.
He explained that Data from the Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey and reports from the Ministry of Women Affairs, and Social Development revealed that nearly 35 percent of women nationwide have experienced some form of domestic violence.
“In the Northwest, the situation is even more alarming; for instance, recent figures from Kano suggest that up to 40 percent of women have encountered domestic abuse, while Kaduna, Katsina, and Sokoto have recorded significant increases in reported cases over the past year.
“These figures are a stark reminder that domestic violence not only violates human rights but also inflicts lasting physical, emotional, and psychological trauma that weakens the social fabric of our communities.
“In addressing these twin challenges, I must acknowledge the commendable and targeted interventions by the Government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR. On the national stage, the government has significantly bolstered the capacity of the NDLEA by increasing funding, providing modern tools and enhanced training, and launching initiatives that expand rehabilitation centers and community-based outreach programs.
“These measures have disrupted drug trafficking networks and provided essential support to those affected by substance abuse.
“In parallel, on the issue of domestic violence, the government has introduced robust legal reforms and reinforced policies through the Ministry of Women Affairs and Social Development.
“These efforts include establishing safe houses, counseling services, and comprehensive public awareness campaigns that aim to protect victims and promote cultural change toward zero tolerance of abuse.
“In the Northwest sub-region, these national efforts are being effectively complemented by region-specific interventions. State governments in Kaduna, Katsina, Kano, Sokoto, Zamfara, Jigawa, and Kebbi have increased collaboration with federal agencies.
‘For example, Kaduna State has reported a significant improvement in community safety due to the enhanced presence of specialized law enforcement units and targeted drug interdiction operations.
“Similarly, local governments in Kano and Katsina are actively supporting domestic violence initiatives through partnerships with non-governmental organizations and community leaders, thereby extending vital protective services to the most vulnerable members of society.
“I have chosen to focus on these pressing issues because they strike at the very heart of our collective security and prosperity.
“Sensitisation, in this context, is far more than an awareness campaign; it is a decisive call to action. By educating our citizens about the perils of drug abuse and domestic violence, we aim to foster preventative measures, extend critical support services, and empower our communities to safeguard their future.”
Reacting to this worrisome development, the Director-General of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, observed that the menace of drug abuse and the circulation of illicit drugs is not just a national challenge but a crisis that threatens the very fabric of society.
However, drug abuse, he said, does not exist in isolation, saying research has shown a direct link between drug abuse and violent crimes.
“According to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC), drug-related crimes, including armed robbery, kidnapping, terrorism, domestic violence, and sexual assault, are significantly fueled by substance abuse. Across Nigeria, communities are witnessing a rise in violent criminal activities, and at the core of this menace lies the illicit drug trade, which fuels instability and destroys lives.”
“We cannot address violent crimes in the North West without tackling the root cause—drug abuse and illicit drug trade.
“This campaign, therefore, is a call to action for all stakeholders to break the cycle of addiction and crime, ensuring a safer society for all.
“This initiative is not just another awareness program; it is a call to action for all stakeholders—the government, religious leaders, community elders, youth groups, civil society organizations, and the private sector.
“Our objectives are clear: to create awareness about the dangers of drug abuse and its direct link to violent crimes; to mobilize communities, especially our youth, to resist and reject drug culture and criminal activities; to engage policymakers to strengthen laws and enforcement against drug trafficking and violent crimes; and to advocate for rehabilitation and reintegration of those affected by addiction and criminal influence.
“Our traditional and religious leaders must take a stand as the custodians of our values and moral compass. Your voices resonate deeply within our communities, and your influence can inspire change.
“We urge you to use your platforms to discourage drug use, advocate for rehabilitation, and lead a strong movement against crime and addiction. The time to act is now.
“The legal framework governing drug control must be reinforced, and enforcement mechanisms strengthened to ensure that traffickers and enablers of this illicit trade face the full force of the law. We must work towards policies that not only punish offenders but also support preventive measures and rehabilitation programs that reintegrate victims of addiction and crime back into society as productive citizens.
“This campaign will employ a multi-faceted approach to ensure maximum reach and impact. Town hall meetings will provide platforms for real conversations where stakeholders can develop practical, locally relevant solutions.
“Community engagement and roadshows will take the message directly to the people to break communication barriers and reach those most vulnerable.
“Advocacy visits will secure the commitment of political, traditional, and religious leaders to support legislative reforms and community-based rehabilitation.
“Education and awareness will be reinforced through the production and distribution of Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) materials to empower communities with knowledge.
“A robust media campaign leveraging television and radio, including production and deployment of television commercials and radio jingles and social media platforms will drive home the message in major local languages.”
Proffering solutions to the menace of drug abuse, the NDLEA helmsman disclosed that the drug crisis demands a multi-sectoral response involving law enforcement agencies, traditional and religious leaders, civil society organizations, educators, the media, and the entire community.
“We recognize the resilience and cultural values of the people of this region and call upon community leaders, parents, and young people to play an active role in preventing drug abuse and trafficking.
“This campaign, aimed at tackling drug abuse in the North-West, is part of a broader national strategy to rid Nigeria of the scourge of illicit drugs. In line with the National Drug Control Master Plan (NDCMP) 2021–2025, which outlines our national framework on drug control, we are implementing a balanced approach that includes prevention, treatment, care, and enforcement.
“The NDLEA has intensified efforts to apprehend drug traffickers and dismantle drug cartels. Our landmark operations, such as the seizure of large consignments of drugs and the arrest of kingpins, have sent a strong message that we will not relent in our fight against this menace. In the past four years, we have arrested over 57,792 drug traffickers including 65 drug barons and 10,572 convicted. Our seizure was more than 9.9 million kilograms.
“Recognising addiction as a health issue, we have prioritized treatment and rehabilitation. This has led to the establishment of 30 counseling and rehabilitation centers nationwide, offering psychosocial interventions, medical care, referrals, and social reintegration for recovering drug users. In addition.
“We have built three model counseling and rehabilitation centers in Kano, Abuja, and Adamawa and recently renovated the rehab center in Zaria. Across the seven North-West states: Kano, Kaduna, Sokoto, Jigawa, Katsina, Kebbi, and Zamfara, we have counseling and rehabilitation services in our commands in these states with the least in Zamfara, which has a three-bed space but I’m glad to add that the state government is at the verge of building one as we speak. A total of 22,047 persons have been counseled, treated, and rehabilitated through these facilities in the past four years.
“In this regard, we are also not unaware of the fear of being judged and stigmatization by people afflicted by this scourge, and as a result, we have established a national call center where we have a range of experts: Counsellors, Clinical Psychologists, Psychotherapists and Psychiatry Doctors, who work 24/7 to attend to clients on our toll-free helpline- 080010203040, with the utmost confidentiality.
“To make this service accessible to people in the rural areas who may not be able to speak English and Pidgin English, the Service is language sensitive and can be accessed through any of the three major Nigerian languages: Hausa, Yoruba, and Igbo.
“This notwithstanding, we call on our governors in the zone to please build at least three rehabilitation centers in their states, with one in each senatorial district,t, because of the enormity and consequences of this menace on the socio-economic wellbeing of our citizens and the security of everyone, if left to fester.
‘At the NDLEA, we have rolled out a series of strategic interventions, including the War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) social advocacy initiative, aimed at educating and mobilizing communities, especially young people, to take a stand against drug abuse.
“And in four years, we have conducted over 9,239 of such engagements in schools, worship centers, workplaces, motor parks, and communities, among others, with more than 3,333,678 in physical attendance and millions more eached virtually.
“Closely linked to this is our Save Our Families (SOF) advocacy campaign, which is to encourage parents, families, religious institutions, traditional rulers, schools, employers of labor, and governments at all levels to embrace our Drug Integrity Test initiative.
“This is to ensure that drug integrity test becomes a major requirement for school admission, weddings, employment, and election into public offices starting from local councillorship, and we are glad a number of the stakeholders, including some states, have already adopted this.”
A Community leader from Katsina State, Ibrahim Funtua, while applauding the new campaign to save the Northwest region from drug abuse and reduce violent crimes, said the region, if it does not act decisively, risks losing an entire generation to addiction, crime, and violence.
