Nasarawa State SSG Urges Stronger Action Against Drug Abuse

Drug abuse seen as root of rising crime

On Monday in Lafia, Dr Labaran Magaji, Secretary to the Nasarawa State Government (SSG), warned that drug abuse is a key driver of criminality and other social vices in the state. Speaking to the visiting commander of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Saidu Daniel, the SSG said that virtually every family in Nasarawa is affected by drug use, with consequences that include political thuggery and school drop‑outs.

Magaji urged the NDLEA to prioritise its work and to receive the necessary government backing. He said the agency’s job cannot be underestimated and that the state must bring the issue to the front burner to enable effective operation.

Meeting between state and federal agencies

The meeting took place as part of a familiarisation visit by the NDLEA commander. According to Daniel, his objective was to maintain the cooperative relationship between the agency and the state administration while pursuing further assistance, particularly regarding logistics. He noted that the drug problem in Nigeria is challenging, with new dangerous substances emerging.

The SSG confirmed that the state government already provides monthly sub‑ventions and logistics support to all security agencies, including federal bodies such as the NDLEA. He assured the commander that the state would continue to address the agency’s logistical challenges.

Context of security and community engagement

Magaji praised Governor Abdullahi Sule for his leadership style, which he said has contributed to relative peace in Nasarawa compared with other North‑Central states. He attributed this success to community engagement and support for security agencies.

The SSG conceded that although significant divisions stemming from communal, tribal, or banditry issues are uncommon in the region, historical remnants of criminal activity persist in certain areas.

Why it matters

The comments highlight the growing concern that drug abuse is not only a health issue but also a catalyst for broader social problems. The SSG’s call for stronger NDLEA support reflects a recognition that effective drug control requires adequate resources and coordination between state and federal agencies.

The statement also underscores the importance of maintaining the relative peace Nasarawa enjoys, which could be threatened if drug‑related crime continues to rise.

What happens next

The sources do not specify any concrete next steps beyond the ongoing cooperation and support for the NDLEA. No dates or further actions were announced at the meeting.

The meeting serves as a reminder that addressing drug abuse requires sustained collaboration between state leadership and national enforcement bodies.