The Chairman of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brig. Gen. Buba Marwa (rtd.), has expressed deep concern about the growing rate of drug abuse among young Nigerians, warning that the trend poses a major threat to the country’s future.

Marwa made the remarks during a public sensitization event in Abuja, stressing that urgent action must be taken to address the issue. According to him, drug misuse is no longer confined to urban areas but has spread into rural communities, affecting both young men and women.

“Drug abuse among youths has reached a worrying level,” he stated. “If this continues unchecked, the consequences for our nation will be dire. We cannot build a strong future on a generation weakened by substance abuse.”

The NDLEA boss highlighted the agency’s ongoing nationwide campaigns, school outreaches, and rehabilitation initiatives aimed at reducing drug dependency. He also noted that the agency has intensified efforts to clamp down on traffickers and cartels who profit from supplying narcotics to vulnerable populations.

Statistics released by the NDLEA earlier this year show that Nigeria has one of the highest rates of drug use in Africa, with millions of young people engaging in the misuse of substances ranging from cannabis to opioids. Marwa emphasized that while enforcement is critical, education and awareness remain equally important in changing attitudes toward drugs.

His comments quickly gained attention on social media, with many Nigerians echoing his concerns. Several public health experts also supported his call for stronger community-based programs, noting that prevention and rehabilitation are as crucial as law enforcement.

As conversations around youth, health, and national development continue, the NDLEA reiterated its commitment to safeguarding Nigeria’s future by tackling drug abuse on all fronts.