The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) in Oyo State has revealed that about four out of every 10 university students are into drugs.
The statistic was shared by the state NDLEA Commander, Olayinke Joe-Fadile, during a rally in Ibadan on Wednesday.
The rally was held in commemoration of the upcoming 2025 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.
Every year on June 26, the day is recognised worldwide to promote efforts toward a drug-free society.
The theme for the 2025 event is: “The evidence is clear: Invest in prevention, break the circle.”
Commander Joe-Fadile expressed concern over the rising number of young people getting involved in drugs.
He mentioned that many children as young as nine are starting to use drugs, which is becoming increasingly common.
He emphasised the importance of spreading awareness and prevention campaigns in schools, including universities, since young people are increasingly at risk.
The NDLEA commander also noted that the 2025 campaign aims to promote long-term strategies to combat organised crime and drug trafficking.
The campaign includes addressing the underlying issues that lead to drug use, investing in prevention programs, and strengthening health, education, and social services.
Read also:
- MTN Foundation, NDLEA take campaign against drug abuse to students in Kano
- Marwa commissions NDLEA Vision Centre in Abuja
- NDLEA raids drugs hotspots in Kano, arrests 19 suspects
Joe-Fadile warned about the health risks of drug use, including damage to internal organs and the possibility of a painful death.
He assured the public that the NDLEA will take legal action against those who produce and sell illegal drugs in Oyo State.
He stated that “every day may seem like a free day for drug dealers, but someday, the law will catch up with them.”
The NDLEA is also partnering with traditional and religious leaders, as they often have the respect of local communities, to help spread the message against drug abuse.
The rally included participants from various organisations such as the army, the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), and the Nigeria Customs Service, among others.
