Gov. Sanwo-Olu Decries Rising Drug Abuse, Calls for Urgent National Response

The Lagos State Government has raised alarm over the increasing rate of substance abuse in the state and across Nigeria, urging collective and immediate action to combat the growing crisis.

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu made the call during the Anti-Substance Abuse Programme (ASAP) Advocacy Stakeholders Conference, hosted by MTN Nigeria at its headquarters in Falomo, Lagos.

Represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Barrister Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin, the governor described substance abuse as a “malignant cancer” threatening the nation’s foundation and the well-being of future generations.

“It is disheartening to witness the spread of drug abuse among our youth, with its grip extending even to our innocent children,” Salu-Hundeyin said. “Our young people are the lifeblood of our future. But how can a nation thrive when its strength is undermined by the devastating effects of addiction?”

She outlined Lagos State’s multi-pronged approach to tackling the issue, including the establishment of a dedicated mental health institute, a 24-hour mental health support helpline, and strengthened collaboration with regulatory agencies to improve oversight.

“We are prioritising prevention as a key strategy in this fight,” she noted. “Through the Lagos State Well-Being Programme, we’ve expanded school counseling services, empowered communities and faith-based institutions with early intervention tools, and enhanced mental health awareness to address the issue before it escalates.”

Salu-Hundeyin also commended MTN Nigeria for its proactive role in promoting youth development through the ASAP initiative. She lauded the programme’s contributions to youth education, teacher training, and sustained national advocacy, calling it a model of how the private sector can play a pivotal role in driving positive societal change.