Drug abuse remains one of the most critical challenges facing Nigeria today, with the consequences reverberating across various sectors of society. Recent statistics from NAFDAC reveal that approximately 14.3 million Nigerians are engaged in drug misuse, and 73% of arrests related to drugs involve possession (Nairametrics, Thursday, January 23, 2025). A particularly concerning trend is the increasing involvement of young people in this crisis. According to the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), over 70% of those arrested for drug-related offences are between the ages of 15 and 35. This statistic highlights the urgency of addressing drug misuse among the nation’s youth, whose future prospects are being jeopardised by this growing epidemic.
Given the magnitude of the problem, tackling drug abuse requires a concerted, multi-faceted approach. Public Relations (PR) professionals, under the guidance of the Nigerian Institute of Public Relations (NIPR), have a crucial role to play in driving the national conversation and reorienting societal attitudes towards drug abuse. PR professionals are uniquely positioned to lead large-scale advocacy campaigns that use strategic communication to raise awareness about the dangers of drug misuse and offer alternative, healthier lifestyles to the youth. These campaigns, designed to resonate with young people, should utilise diverse platforms — from digital media to schools, community groups, and religious institutions — to ensure maximum reach and engagement.
The National Orientation Agency (NOA), as the primary government agency responsible for public enlightenment, is a critical partner in this effort. By embedding anti-drug abuse messaging in its nationwide campaigns, the NOA can help disseminate vital information and foster a culture of resistance against drug misuse at the grassroots level. Collaborating with local leaders, influencers, and community groups, the NOA has the ability to reach the remotest parts of Nigeria and deliver the message in culturally relevant and effective ways.
Furthermore, collaboration between NIPR, NOA, NDLEA, NAFDAC and other governmental and non-governmental agencies will be crucial in tackling the drug abuse crisis head-on. These stakeholders must work together to integrate drug education into school curricula, advocate for policies that control the availability of harmful substances, and ensure that young people are educated about the consequences of drug misuse from an early age.
Additionally, leveraging research-driven strategies is essential. Data from NDLEA, NAFDAC and other relevant bodies should be used to identify trends in drug abuse and shape communication strategies that are specific to demographic groups most at risk. By understanding the root causes of drug misuse, PR professionals can craft targeted, evidence-based messages that have a greater impact on the youth and the wider population.
The role of recognition cannot be overstated. By celebrating the efforts of PR professionals and organisations that create innovative and impactful anti-drug campaigns, we can encourage greater commitment and creativity in addressing this issue. Awards and public recognition serve as both incentives and motivators for continuous progress in the fight against drug abuse.
Ultimately, combating the drug abuse crisis in Nigeria is a collective responsibility. Public Relations professionals, with their expertise in shaping public perception and influencing behaviour, are central to this effort. By partnering with key stakeholders such as the NOA, NDLEA, and other government agencies, they can lead the charge in creating a society that values and protects the well-being of its youth.
The time to act is now. Through strategic communication, community engagement, and collaborative action, we can tackle drug abuse in Nigeria and ensure a brighter, healthier future for the next generation.
Ezenwa Opara – Is A PR And Strategic Corporate Communication Professional and Writes from Lagos
