International Drug Day 2024: North, South-West, South-South Red Zones for Drug Abuse – NDLEA

By Shine Alagba

Mrs. Ibinabo Archie-Abia, the Assistant Commander General of Narcotics at the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), has said that drug abuse is more prevalent in the North, South-West, and South-South regions of the country.

Archie-Abia, while appearing on the Arise News Morning show on Tuesday, said drug abuse is a pervasive problem across Nigeria, with no region spared from its grip.

She said: “It is a national issue. No state is isolated from this thing called drug abuse.”

Archie-Abia, however, noted that some regions face more severe challenges than others, citing the regions in the north, South-West, and South-South.

According to her, the anti-narcotics agency has made giant strides with its National Drug Control Master Plan by partnering with various ministries and international stakeholders.

“These collaborations include the Ministry of Health and the Ministry of Education, as well as support from Her Excellency’s NGO dedicated to drug abuse prevention.

She emphasized that everyone should own the investment in drug prevention, not just the NDLEA.

Archie-Abia disclosed that the NDLEA has continued to partner with traditional institutions for grassroots sensitization about drug abuse, adding that all Nigerians will be carried along in the campaign.

Archie-Abia urged parents to be vigilant and aware of their children’s environment and behaviors.

“If a parent notices that their child is showing signs of drug usage, instead of trying to cover up the situation due to embarrassment, it’s best to direct their child to rehab.

“It is better to nip it in the bud than allow it to escalate.”