Lagos State – June 2025 — The Lagos State Government has reaffirmed its commitment to combating the menace of drug abuse through a multi-stakeholder awareness campaign spearheaded by the Ministry of Health.
The campaign, which coincided with the 2025 International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, saw government officials, health professionals, civil society groups, and community leaders converge to amplify awareness and promote empathy-driven solutions.
Speaking at the event, the Permanent Secretary, Lagos State Ministry of Health, Dr. Olusegun Ogboye, stressed the need for a holistic approach to curbing drug abuse. He emphasized that drug addiction should be addressed not with stigma, but with empathy, prevention-focused education, and accessible treatment services.
“Substance abuse is a health crisis that affects individuals, families, and communities. We must prioritize compassion, prevention, and rehabilitation, not criminalization,” Dr. Ogboye said.
The campaign featured sensitization outreaches in schools, marketplaces, and religious centres, with messages encouraging young people to make healthy life choices and seek support when needed. Health experts also urged the public to report suspicious drug-related activities while reinforcing the importance of mental health care in tackling addiction.
The Lagos State Government called on all stakeholders — including parents, teachers, traditional rulers, and the media — to play their part in protecting the youth and vulnerable groups from the dangers of substance abuse.
The campaign underscores the state’s leading role in aligning with national and global efforts to tackle drug abuse through sustainable public health strategies.
