Thousands of Nigerians took to the streets on Saturday, June 20, 2026, in Lagos, Abuja, and Asaba for a coordinated nationwide advocacy walk against substance abuse, led by the MTN Foundation’s Anti-Substance Abuse Programme (ASAP), in partnership with the NDLEA and other security and health agencies. The walks, held to mark the 2026 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, brought together security, health, and development stakeholders in a nationwide call for prevention and awareness.
In Lagos, participants marched from Bashorun Park, Gbagada, to the University of Lagos, Akoka, where MTN Foundation Chairman, Dr. Mosun Belo-Olusoga, reaffirmed the organisation’s commitment to youth-focused prevention programmes. “This advocacy walk is a call to action,” she said. “Change begins with awareness, grows through unity, and is sustained through commitment.”
The Deputy Commander of Narcotics, Counselling, Treatment and Rehabilitation at the NDLEA Lagos Command, Ezeiala Chinyere, described the initiative as highly impactful and a valuable support to the agency’s mandate. “The impact of this programme has been very positive and far-reaching in our fight against substance abuse globally,” she said. “MTN Foundation is strengthening our efforts and adding real value to what we are doing, and we are sincerely grateful for the initiative.”
In Abuja, stakeholders focused on the rising vulnerability of young people aged 10 to 25, particularly through exposure on social media and digital platforms. NDLEA and UNODC officials warned that drug trafficking networks are increasingly using online content and lifestyle trends to target youth, urging stronger prevention programmes in schools and communities.
In Asaba, NDLEA officials raised concerns over the scale of substance abuse in Delta State, estimating prevalence at about 18 percent and affecting over 500,000 people. The command also reported significant enforcement results over the past year, including the destruction of 26 hectares of cannabis farms, seizures worth over ₦300 million, and 235 convictions.
Across all three cities, stakeholders reaffirmed their commitment to sustained collaboration against drug abuse, stressing that while the walks created visibility and unity around the issue, long-term impact will depend on continued education, prevention, and rehabilitation efforts.