Leadership in Action: A Call to Combat Substance Abuse
Leadership, at its core, is not defined by titles or positions; it is about the responsibility we take for the future of our communities. As John Maxwell once said, a leader knows the way, shows the way, and goes the way. This principle becomes even more critical as we reflect on World Drug Day (June 26), which serves as a reminder of the urgent need to address substance abuse in Nigeria. The global theme this year, “The World Drug Problem: Persisting Issues, New Challenges, Innovative Responses,” highlights the complexity of the issue and the necessity for collective action.
Understanding the gravity of the situation requires us to ground our empathy in facts. According to the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime Drug Use in Nigeria Survey (2018), nearly 14.3 million Nigerians aged 15 to 64 had used psychoactive substances. Although this data is over a decade old, it underscores the persistent challenge of substance abuse. The survey also revealed that one in four users was a woman, and the majority were young people. These numbers are not just statistics; they represent lives affected, families torn apart, and potential leaders lost to addiction.
To combat this crisis, we must move beyond emotional reactions and adopt structured, sustainable solutions. The MTN Anti-Substance Abuse Programme (ASAP) was launched in 2019 with the aim of addressing the root causes of substance abuse, such as curiosity, peer pressure, and socio-economic despair. ASAP is a multi-sectoral initiative designed to reduce first-time drug use through education, awareness, and community engagement.
The Evolving Landscape of Substance Abuse
The nature of substance abuse is constantly evolving, with new challenges emerging. Synthetic drugs and the commoditisation of prescription medicines have increased the risk of addiction. Additionally, technology has become a tool for cybernarcotics, changing the dynamics of drug trafficking and use. In response, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has taken significant steps, seizing large quantities of illicit drugs and making numerous arrests. For instance, from January 2025 to May 2026, the NDLEA seized 5,305,484.88 kilograms of drugs worth N1.5 trillion through 29,262 arrests. Recently, a meth manufacturing ring was busted in Ogun State, highlighting the urgency of the issue.
Collaborative Efforts and Measurable Outcomes
The impact of the ASAP initiative is a testament to the power of public-private partnerships. Through collaborations with the NDLEA, UNODC, and various NGOs, the MTN Foundation has institutionalised anti-substance abuse advocacy. Our efforts have reached schools, motor parks, markets, and digital spaces, fostering open dialogues and reducing stigma around addiction.
This year’s activities have been scaled up to address the rising prevalence of synthetic drugs. Digital initiatives, including mental health resources and interactive awareness modules, are being leveraged to engage our youth. High-level policy roundtables, quiz competitions, and grassroots activations are part of the strategy to ensure that advocacy is backed by robust frameworks.
A Commitment to the Future
The collaboration between the MTN Foundation, the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, and the Office of the Vice President marks a historic milestone. This partnership aims to conduct Nigeria’s first nationally representative substance abuse survey among secondary school students, providing critical data to inform targeted interventions and policies.
As a change practitioner, I believe that sustainable behavioral shifts require systemic, continuous, and dynamic approaches. This year’s World Drug Day activities reflect a commitment to innovation and healing. The teenager struggling with addiction is not an isolated case; their journey is intertwined with the economic stability of our communities. Their recovery is our shared victory.
A Call to Action
On this World Drug Day, I urge the government, corporate Nigeria, civil society organisations, and every citizen to move from intent to action. Let us invest in preventive advocacy and psychosocial support structures. Let us choose to know the way, show the way, and walk the way together toward a drug-free, prosperous Nigeria.
