By Musa Ubandawaki, Sokoto

Stakeholders in Sokoto State have called for tougher anti-drug laws, expanded rehabilitation facilities and intensified public awareness campaigns to curb the growing menace of drug abuse and illicit trafficking.

The call was made on Friday during the 2026 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, organised by the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Sokoto State Command.

The event, held under the global theme, “Persistent Issues, New Challenges, Innovative Responses,” brought together government officials, security agencies, civil society organisations, traditional rulers, educational institutions, youth groups and development partners to deliberate on the impact of substance abuse on public health, security and national development.

Speaking at the event, the NDLEA Commander in Sokoto State, Mustapha Muhammad Gidado, described drug abuse as one of the greatest threats facing communities, families and the nation’s future, stressing that the challenge requires sustained collaboration among all stakeholders.

He said the annual observance of World Drug Day provides an opportunity to assess progress in combating illicit drugs, while mobilising society to adopt innovative approaches to emerging drug-related challenges.

According to him, drug trafficking and substance abuse continue to undermine public health, fuel criminal activities and worsen insecurity, particularly among young people.

“Drug abuse is not only a health issue but also a social, economic and security challenge. It destroys lives, weakens families and threatens the peace and stability of our communities. The fight against illicit drugs must therefore remain a collective responsibility,” Gidado said.

He commended the Sokoto State Government and partner organisations for supporting drug control initiatives and urged communities to assist security agencies by reporting illicit drug activities.

The Deputy Governor of Sokoto State, Engr. Idris Muhammad Gobir, reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to supporting programmes aimed at reducing substance abuse and strengthening rehabilitation and reintegration initiatives.

Gobir noted that drug abuse contributes to rising crime, youth unemployment, family breakdown, mental health challenges and insecurity.

“Drug abuse continues to rob our society of productive young people and contributes to various forms of criminality. Government alone cannot solve this problem; every stakeholder must play a role in protecting our communities,” he said.

Experts at the event delivered papers on emerging patterns of substance abuse, prevention strategies, rehabilitation programmes and the relationship between drug trafficking and insecurity.

They warned that illicit drug networks increasingly exploit vulnerable communities and contribute to violent crimes, banditry and other security threats, underscoring the need for stronger enforcement and preventive measures.

Participants also expressed concern over the increasing availability of illicit drugs and the growing number of young people battling addiction.

Among the major resolutions reached at the event was a call on the Sokoto State Government to enact a law imposing stiffer sanctions on drug dealers, suppliers and distributors operating within the state.

The stakeholders argued that stronger legislation, backed by effective enforcement, would complement the efforts of the NDLEA and other security agencies.

They also urged the government to establish more counselling and rehabilitation centres to cater to the increasing number of people seeking treatment for substance abuse.

According to them, expanding rehabilitation services would enhance the recovery process and enable former drug users to acquire skills and reintegrate successfully into society.

The issue of stigmatisation also featured prominently during the discussions, with participants lamenting that many rehabilitated drug users continue to face discrimination despite completing treatment programmes.

They called on religious leaders, traditional rulers, community organisations and the media to lead campaigns promoting acceptance and reintegration of recovering addicts.

The stakeholders further advocated greater investment in preventive education, especially among schoolchildren and young people, to reduce drug demand and encourage healthy lifestyles.

The event ended with a renewed commitment by government agencies, civil society organisations and community leaders to strengthen collaboration in tackling drug abuse and illicit trafficking through prevention, enforcement, treatment and rehabilitation.

Participants described the World Drug Day celebration as a timely platform for advancing dialogue on one of Nigeria’s most pressing social challenges while reinforcing the collective resolve to protect future generations from the devastating effects of drug abuse and related crimes.