The Lagos State Government has raised concerns over the increasing abuse of synthetic and prescription drugs among young people, warning that emerging drug trends now pose a more complex threat to public health and social stability.
The warning was issued during the 2026 United Nations International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking commemorative event organized by the Lagos State Ministry of Health through the Lagos State Interministerial Drug Abuse Control Committee (LSIDACC), in collaboration with the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA).
Speaking at the event held at Ikeja Senior Grammar School, Chairman of LSIDACC and Director of Pharmaceutical Services, Pharm. Olabisi Okewole, said the global drug problem has evolved beyond conventional narcotics, with synthetic drugs, prescription drug misuse, and online drug markets becoming major concerns.
According to her, young people remain the most vulnerable demographic, making prevention and early intervention critical.
She noted that while traditional drug abuse challenges persist, new patterns of substance misuse are emerging rapidly, requiring innovative and collaborative responses from stakeholders.
“Those affected most are often young people counted on to build this country’s future,” she said.
Okewole stressed that prevention remains the most cost-effective response to substance abuse, urging parents, teachers, faith leaders, and community stakeholders to remain actively involved in youth development.
She said the state government would continue to strengthen multi-sector collaboration involving health institutions, schools, civil society groups, and community leaders to combat the menace.
Also speaking, Deputy Superintendent of Narcotics, A.A. Samuel of the NDLEA, described drug abuse as a destructive force capable of ruining lives, ambitions, and future opportunities.
He warned students against peer pressure and harmful friendships, stressing that many young people are introduced to drugs through social circles.
Samuel particularly warned against cannabis abuse, explaining that the substance contains hundreds of chemical compounds that could negatively affect the body and mental health.
Mental health experts also highlighted the growing connection between substance abuse and psychological disorders.
A representative of the Mental Health Desk Office, Lagos State Ministry of Health, Titofunmi Atewologun, said many young people wrongly turn to drugs as a coping mechanism for stress, academic pressure, and emotional struggles.
He warned that substance abuse often worsens existing problems rather than solving them.
“Drugs do not solve problems; they create bigger ones. They affect health, education, relationships, and future aspirations,” he said.
Atewologun urged students to protect their mental wellbeing, choose positive friendships, and seek help early when struggling with emotional or social challenges.
Delivering a lecture titled “Making the Right Choices in a World of Drug Challenges,” Chief Executive Officer of Purpose Driven Counselling Services, Dr. Oluseyi Odewale, said drug abuse continues to rob young people of academic success, healthy relationships, and future opportunities.
She advised students to stay goal-oriented, learn to resist negative influences, and adopt healthy coping mechanisms for stress.
The event involved various students and teachers from Ikeja Senior Grammar School, Bolade Senior Grammar School, Oshodi Senior Comprehensive School, and Oshodi Senior High School, reiterating the need for sustained awareness campaigns to build a drug-free generation in Lagos.