The Chairman of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, retired Brigadier-General Buba Marwa, on Tuesday warned that drug abuse among young people remains one of the greatest threats to Nigeria’s future.
Marwa issued the warning in Abuja while delivering the keynote address at the Football Anti-Drug Abuse Programme titled “Kick Out Drug Abuse,” organised by Richy Gold International Ltd in partnership with the NDLEA.
He commended the organisers for creatively harnessing the power of football—the world’s most popular sport—to engage youths in positive and life-changing activities.
According to Marwa, substances such as tobacco, alcohol, cannabis sativa, tramadol, codeine mixtures, cocaine, and methamphetamine are sadly being abused 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 rates, violence, and shattered communities,” he said.
The NDLEA chairman emphasised that prevention remains the best defence.
Marwa stressed that the football-based sensitisation programme highlights the value of using sports to steer youths away from destructive habits.
“Football teaches discipline, teamwork, resilience, and determination. Every pass, every goal, and every victory comes from focus and commitment.
“Similarly, in life, our youths are constantly faced with choices: whether to stay on the path of discipline or to fall into the dangerous trap of drug
abuse.
“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,” Marwa said.
He reminded the youths that professional footballers, whether in local leagues or on the international stage, maintain their excellence by living drug-free lives.
To win in football and in life, one must stay drug-free. Marwa warned that footballers who abuse drugs cannot sustain excellence on the pitch.
“Therefore, I urge every young person here to let football inspire you to channel your energy into creativity, hard work, and teamwork.
“Let the slogan ‘Kick Out Drug Abuse’ be more than words. Let it guide your lifestyle. Remember, saying no to drugs means saying yes to your dreams, your health, and your future,” he said.
Marwa reiterated the NDLEA’s full commitment to keeping drugs off Nigeria’s streets, out of schools, and far away from the nation’s youths.
He explained that the agency is strengthening prevention programmes and promoting counselling and rehabilitation for users who need help.
The agency is also deepening partnerships with ministries, agencies, schools, sports bodies, religious groups, and community leaders, among others.
Emphasis is placed on prevention targeting young people both in and out of school, with interventions designed to delay drug initiation while providing support for current users.
“However, the fight against drug abuse cannot be won by the NDLEA alone.
“We call on every young person to be a champion in your own corner—reject drugs and positively influence your peers,” he added.
Jude Onwusonye, Managing Director of Richy Gold International Ltd, said that beyond manufacturing, the organisation is proud to champion social impact through its flagship campaign, KODA.
Onwusonye described KODA as more than a project, calling it a clarion call, in partnership with relevant agencies, to safeguard the future of youth, combat drug abuse, and inspire a healthier, more productive society.
“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 redefining pharmaceutical excellence while leading the charge for a drug-free generation,” Onwusonye concluded.
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