The Chairman of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brigadier General Mohamed Buba Marwa (rtd), has called on Nigerians to resist and discourage the growing culture that portrays drug abuse as fashionable, especially among young people.
Marwa made the appeal on Thursday during the commissioning of the agency’s radio station, Clean Beat 91.5FM, in Abuja. He said the station would support the NDLEA’s War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) campaign through education, awareness and public engagement.
According to him, the increasing acceptance of drug abuse in popular culture poses a serious threat to society and requires urgent collective action from stakeholders, media organisations and communities.
“We recognise that behind every case of drug abuse is a human being — a young person searching for escape, a family seeking solutions, and individuals whose lives can still be redirected positively,” Marwa stated.
He explained that the radio station would be used to promote positive values, share recovery stories and provide accurate information capable of discouraging substance abuse among Nigerians.
Marwa warned that allowing harmful narratives around drugs to spread unchecked could lead to severe consequences for public health, national security and economic stability.
“If we fail to control the narrative today, the consequences tomorrow could be devastating,” he warned.
The NDLEA boss also noted that substance abuse remains a major factor contributing to insecurity and social challenges across the country. He, however, expressed confidence that sustained advocacy and awareness campaigns could help reverse the trend.
He added that the agency remains committed to intercepting illicit drugs, dismantling criminal networks and prosecuting individuals involved in drug trafficking.
Speaking at the event, the United Nations Country Representative, represented by Dr. Akanidomo Ibanga, described the initiative as a commendable step that combines enforcement with education and advocacy.
According to him, the radio station aligns with Nigeria’s National Drug Control Master Plan and strengthens efforts toward a balanced and health-focused approach to drug control.
Also speaking, Director-General of the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), Charles Ebuebu, said the project demonstrates the strategic role of broadcasting in shaping public orientation and influencing positive behavioural change among youths.
