The Chief Medical Director of the Federal Neuro-Psychiatric Hospital, Yaba, Dr. Olugbenga Adekile Owoeye, has called for a multi-stakeholder approach to tackling the growing menace of drug abuse and illicit trafficking in Nigeria, emphasizing that prevention remains the most effective strategy in addressing the challenge.
Dr. Owoeye made the call while delivering the keynote address at the Media Practitioners’ Capacity Building Programme organized on Thursday, 25th June, 2026 by the Nigerian Online Media Alliance (NOMA), a coalition of digital media publishers and journalists committed to promoting ethical journalism, media development, and impactful public advocacy across Nigeria.
The conference was in collaboration with the International Society of Substance Use Prevention and Treatment Professionals (ISSUP Nigeria), the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), and the Federal Neuro-Psychiatric Hospital, Yaba, to commemorate the 2026 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.
Speaking on the theme, “Responsible Media, Drug-Free Nigeria: The Journalist’s Role in Prevention and Advocacy,” the medical expert described drug abuse and illicit drug trafficking as a global challenge with far-reaching consequences for individuals, families, communities, and national development.
According to him, Nigeria continues to grapple with an alarming prevalence of substance abuse, making it imperative for all stakeholders to unite in combating the problem.
“Drug abuse is not only a public health concern; it is a social, economic and security challenge. No single institution can solve the problem alone. Everyone has a role to play in addressing this menace,” he said.
Dr. Owoeye noted that the Federal Neuro-Psychiatric Hospital, Yaba, has remained at the forefront of efforts aimed at reducing substance abuse through treatment, rehabilitation, recovery support, research, capacity building and prevention programmes.
He disclosed that through partnerships and international collaborations, more than 1,200 substance use prevention and treatment professionals have been trained across Nigeria to strengthen the country’s response to drug-related challenges.
However, the Medical Director lamented the shortage of mental health professionals in the country, revealing that Nigeria has fewer than 300 psychiatrists serving a population of over 200 million people.
He stressed that the inadequate number of psychiatrists, psychologists, social workers and addiction counsellors makes prevention an indispensable strategy in the fight against drug abuse.
“The best approach is to prevent drug abuse from occurring in the first place. This is why public awareness, education and advocacy are critical components of our response,” he stated.
Highlighting the importance of the media, Dr. Owoeye described journalists as key partners in the campaign against substance abuse, noting that the media possesses the power to shape public opinion and influence behavioural change.
He identified three major responsibilities of the media in the fight against drug abuse: educating the public on the dangers of substance abuse, creating sustained awareness about the problem, and directing affected individuals and families to appropriate treatment and rehabilitation services.
“The media serves as a bridge between information and action. Journalists can help educate the public, keep the issue on the front burner and guide those affected toward professional help,” he said.
Dr. Owoeye explained that the capacity-building programme was designed to equip media practitioners with the knowledge required to report responsibly and accurately on issues related to substance abuse, mental health and recovery.
He commended the Nigerian Online Media Alliance (NOMA) for taking the initiative to commemorate the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking through media engagement and professional development.
The medical director reaffirmed the readiness of the Federal Neuro-Psychiatric Hospital, Yaba, to partner with organizations, institutions and stakeholders committed to reducing substance abuse and promoting mental wellness across the country.
“Drug abuse is a global problem, but the solution begins with individual and collective responsibility. Together, we can build healthier communities and a drug-free Nigeria,” he said.
The event brought together journalists, healthcare professionals, policymakers, anti-drug advocates and other stakeholders who discussed strategies for leveraging responsible journalism to prevent drug abuse and support advocacy efforts across Nigeria.
Present at the conference were Chairman, National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Brig Gen Buba Marwa (retd), who was represented by Mrs Rita Geh, Deputy Director, NDLEA, the Lagos state Commissioner of Information and Strategy, Mr. Gbenga Omotosho, who was represented by Mr Obafemi-Ajayi Ademuyiwa and Lagos Ministry of Youths and Social Development, represented by a Director in the ministry, Dr. L.O Kotun among other distinguished professionals.
NOMA expresses its profound appreciation to Polaris Bank, whose generous support through the donation of branded educational and utility items—including cable chargers, water bottles, umbrellas, piggy banks, and mathematical sets—added immense value to the programme.
Also appreciate Access Bank (Gfud & Buka), Coca-Cola, the Lagos State Government, LASKADA, the Federal Road Safety Corps, Lagos State sector command, the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC, Lagos State Command, LAW FM 103.9, Jordan FM, Melody FM, Ovation Media Group, and News Central for their invaluable sponsorship, partnership, and media support.
GATMASH NEWS
…News That Drives Impact
For advert placements and business inquiries, kindly reach us via:
📧 Email: [email protected]
📞 Tel/WhatsApp: +234 (0) 807 202 2024
We value your voice! Share your stories, eyewitness reports, and contributions with us anytime:
📲 SMS/WhatsApp: +234 (0) 807 202 2024
📧 Email: [email protected]
Visit us online: https://gatmash.com
