Global drug crisis: Nigeria faces alarming rates of substance abuse

This increase is attributed to population growth, expanding synthetic drug markets, and sophisticated trafficking networks. Cannabis remains the most consumed illicit substance, while cocaine production has reached record levels. Synthetic drugs like methamphetamine and pharmaceutical opioids are also prevalent, particularly in West and Central Africa.

Nigeria faces a particularly severe situation, with 14.3 million Nigerians, or 14.4 percent of the population aged 15 to 64, involved in drug abuse, nearly three times the global average. Cannabis is the most abused drug in Nigeria, with over 10 million users. The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency NDLEA seized drugs worth N134.2 billion in 2024, including a significant methamphetamine haul valued at $362.92 million N480 billion.

A disturbing trend is the increasing involvement of women, who constitute one in four drug users in Nigeria. Poverty, unemployment, and lack of economic opportunities are key drivers of substance abuse. Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, emphasized that drug abuse is a multi-dimensional problem affecting public health, security, social stability, and economic productivity.

Nigeria's strategic location as a transit point for international drug trafficking further exacerbates