By Evelyn Usman

The need for stronger collaboration among security agencies has again been emphasised as critical to effectively tackling the growing menace of drug abuse in the country, with stakeholders warning that no single institution can win the fight alone.

Speaking at a three-day workshop on Drug Use Prevention Education for Security Leaders: Building Drug-Free Workplaces, organised by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency in the Ikeja area of Lagos, yesterday, wife of the Lagos State Governor, Ibijoke Sanwo-Olu, described the initiative as timely.

Represented by Mrs Funmi Omotosho, she noted that drug abuse remained “one of the most persistent challenges affecting individuals, workplaces and the larger society. Its impact on workplace efficiency and national security cannot be ignored.”

She stressed that collaboration was key, saying: “Addressing drug abuse requires a united effort involving government agencies, security institutions, civil society, families and communities. Prevention, education and advocacy are just as important as enforcement. This workshop provides a platform for engagement, knowledge sharing and practical learning. I encourage you all to remain committed so that together we can build a safer, drug-free society.”

Chairman/Chief Executive Officer of the NDLEA, Buba Marwa, urged stakeholders comprising security personnel drawn from the military, police, Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC), Lagos State Traffic Management Authority (LASTMA), among others, to treat drug abuse as a shared responsibility.

Also represented by the Zonal Commander, Zone ‘A’, ACGN Aniete Nse-Jack, he said the menace cuts across “families and communities, affecting our children, siblings and even colleagues, often in unexpected ways.” He added: “We must begin to engage society more meaningfully and find practical ways to manage the challenges within our spaces. This is not a battle for one agency; it is a shared responsibility. Programmes like this are critical in reversing the trend and strengthening our response to the growing threat.”.

Linking drug abuse to insecurity, he stated: “No sane individual will engage in kidnapping or violence without underlying issues. This is why we must work together to tackle drug abuse at its roots,” while noting that Nigeria has shifted from a transit country to a consumer nation.

Earlier, Commander of NDLEA Lagos Strategic Command, ACGN Abubakar Wali, explained that the workshop was not just about discussions, but about practical steps that would strengthen a collective response to drug control efforts, stressing that “the theme of this workshop is a clear reminder that synergy is key. We must continue to work together, share intelligence and support one another to effectively tackle the drug menace. NDLEA Lagos Strategic Command remains committed to building stronger collaborations to safeguard the future of our society.”