WHO Supports Nigeria’s Efforts to Combat Drug Abuse and Improve Access to Essential Medicines

The World Health Organization (WHO) has reaffirmed its support for Nigeria’s efforts to reduce drug abuse while ensuring patients have access to essential controlled medicines for pain management, mental health treatment, and palliative care.

In a statement released after the National Drug Use Summit, WHO said the gathering brought together government officials, security agencies, health experts, civil society groups, and development partners to strengthen Nigeria’s response to substance abuse.

The summit was organised by the Federal Ministry of Health and Social Welfare, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), and the United Nations in Nigeria, with support from partners including the Global Fund.

WHO noted that drug misuse remains a major public health challenge in Nigeria, particularly among young people.

The abuse of substances such as tramadol, codeine-based cough syrups, and prescription sedatives has been linked to mental health problems, insecurity, violence, and other social issues.

According to the organisation, Nigeria is taking decisive steps to protect communities from drug abuse while maintaining safe access to medicines needed for legitimate medical purposes. WHO provided technical support to ensure that drug control measures do not restrict access for patients who genuinely require these medications.

The agency cited a 2019 UNODC/NDLEA survey which found that 14.4 percent of Nigerians aged 15 to 64 had used drugs within the previous year.

It added that one of the summit’s major outcomes was the adoption of a communiqué aimed at strengthening the implementation of Nigeria’s National Drug Control Master Plan.

Nigeria has intensified efforts in recent years through stronger law enforcement, public awareness campaigns, and expanded treatment and rehabilitation services, with the National Drug Control Master Plan serving as the country’s framework for tackling drug abuse and promoting prevention, treatment, and recovery.

koikimedia Bringing the World 🌎 Closer to Your Doorstep

Join us on our WhatsApp Platform @KOIKIMEDIA NEWS YOUR PAGE