By 𝔸bdulrazak Tomiwa

NDLEA Chairman, Buba Marwa, has raised the alarm over rising involvement of young Nigerians in narcotics. He revealed that over 60 percent of drug offenders arrested in the country are youths, threatening the nation’s future development and stability.

Marwa shared these statistics during a visit from the National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) leadership in Abuja. He expressed deep concern that the demographic essential for national growth is currently the most affected by substance abuse and trafficking.

The Chairman emphasized that the NDLEA is committed to prevention and rehabilitation alongside law enforcement. He urged student leaders to become active ambassadors for the “War Against Drug Abuse” (WADA) campaign to help curb the spread of narcotics within educational institutions.

Data suggests that drug cartels specifically target the youth population, exploiting their vulnerability and curiosity.

This predatory focus often traps young people in a cycle of addiction and crime, leading to frequent arrests and ruined potential.

While the agency has intensified operations and seized massive quantities of illicit substances, Marwa noted that enforcement alone is insufficient. He called for a collective effort from parents and educators to help the youth reject the influence of drugs.

In response, NANS leaders pledged their support to the agency’s mission and promised to promote anti-drug messages on campuses.

They acknowledged the devastating impact of drug use on academic performance and the general well-being of the Nigerian student body.

Marwa concluded by reaffirming the NDLEA’s resolve to dismantle drug syndicates while offering compassion and help to users. He vowed to protect the youth from “merchants of death” who profit from destroying the lives of young citizens.