The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) has raised fresh concerns over the growing threat posed by synthetic drugs, warning that the expanding illicit trade is fueling insecurity and organised crime across Nigeria.
The warning was issued on Friday in Abuja by the UNODC Country Representative, Cheikh Toure, during the 2026 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, also known as World Drug Day. Toure, who was represented by the organisation’s Lead on Drug Demand Reduction, Dr. Akanidomo Ibanga, said the changing nature of the global drug problem demands innovative, coordinated and evidence-based responses.
Speaking on the theme, “The World Drug Problem: Persisting Issues, New Challenges, Innovative Responses,” Toure said the rapid rise in synthetic drugs, evolving trafficking routes and organised criminal networks now pose serious threats to public health, national security and sustainable development.
He warned that the growing connection between illicit drug activities and insecurity has made the fight against drug trafficking and substance abuse increasingly difficult in Nigeria.
“The rise of synthetic drugs, evolving trafficking routes, and the intersection between drug economies and insecurity continue to challenge even the most robust systems,” he said.
While acknowledging the challenges, Toure commended the Federal Government for adopting a balanced approach that combines supply reduction, demand reduction and respect for human rights in addressing the drug problem.
He also praised the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), the Federal Ministry of Health and other stakeholders for strengthening Nigeria’s response to drug-related crimes and substance abuse.
According to him, UNODC is supporting preventive interventions through the Children’s Amplified Prevention Services (CHAMPS) initiative, which seeks to address risk factors before they develop into substance abuse.
He added that the organisation is collaborating with government institutions to improve community-based treatment services, strengthen intelligence gathering and establish early warning systems capable of detecting emerging drug trends, particularly synthetic substances.
Toure also advocated alternatives to incarceration for people living with drug use disorders, arguing that treatment and rehabilitation produce more sustainable outcomes than punishment alone.
He stressed that tackling drug abuse and trafficking requires a whole-of-government and whole-of-society approach because of their strong links to youth unemployment, organised crime and social vulnerability.
The UNODC reaffirmed its commitment to supporting Nigeria through technical assistance, strategic partnerships and innovative programmes aimed at building a safer, healthier and more resilient society.
