Chairman of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), retired Brig.-Gen. Buba Marwa, has warned that rising drug abuse among young Nigerians poses one of the greatest threats to the nation’s future.
Speaking in Abuja at the Kick Out Drug Abuse (KODA) football programme organised by Richy Gold International Ltd in partnership with the NDLEA, Marwa commended the use of football to positively engage youths and raise awareness.
He listed commonly abused substances as tobacco, alcohol, cannabis sativa, tramadol, codeine mixtures, cocaine, and methamphetamine, lamenting their increasing presence in schools, communities, and even sporting circles.
“These substances rob young people of their health, potential, and future. The devastating consequences are broken homes, wasted talents, increased crime rate, violence, and shattered communities,” Marwa said.
The NDLEA boss stressed that prevention remains the most effective defence against drug abuse, noting that football is an ideal tool for promoting discipline, teamwork, and resilience.
“Just as one reckless foul can cost a team a match, one poor choice to experiment with drugs can destroy dreams, ruin careers, and even cut short lives,” he warned.
He urged youths to emulate professional footballers who maintain drug-free lifestyles to sustain excellence.
“To win in football and in life, one must stay drug-free. Let the slogan Kick Out Drug Abuse be more than words let it be your lifestyle,” he charged.
Marwa reaffirmed NDLEA’s commitment to expanding prevention programmes, strengthening counselling and rehabilitation services, and deepening collaborations with schools, ministries, sports bodies, religious groups, and community leaders.
“The fight against drug abuse cannot be won by NDLEA alone. We enjoin every young person to be a champion in your own corner rejecting drugs and influencing your peers positively,” he said.
Managing Director of Richy Gold International Ltd, Jude Onwusonye, described KODA as more than just a project but a clarion call to safeguard the future of youths.
“At Richy Gold International Ltd, we don’t just make pharmaceutical products; we build healthier communities, restore hope, and fuel dreams. With innovation, integrity, and compassion at our core, we are leading the charge for a drug-free generation,” he said.
