MONROVIA, August 4, 2025 — The Parliament of the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) has taken its sensitisation campaign against drug abuse and illicit trafficking to Liberia, as part of its regional strategy to curb the rising menace of substance abuse among youth across West Africa.
The initiative, flagged off during a special session held in Monrovia, brought together regional lawmakers, Liberian government officials, civil society leaders, youth groups, and security agencies. The campaign focused on raising awareness about the dangers of drug abuse, strengthening preventive measures, and fostering regional cooperation in combating the drug crisis threatening the stability and development of West African nations.
Speaker of the ECOWAS Parliament, Hon. Sidie Mohamed Tunis, in his opening address, described drug abuse as a growing epidemic with devastating effects on public health, youth potential, and national security. He emphasized the need for a multi-sectoral approach to halt the trend and urged all stakeholders to collaborate in building strong legal and educational frameworks.
Liberia’s Vice President, Jeremiah Koung, who received the ECOWAS delegation, applauded the regional legislature for selecting Liberia as the latest destination for the anti-drug sensitisation drive. He reiterated the Liberian government’s commitment to strengthening drug control institutions and implementing youth-centered rehabilitation programmes.
According to data presented at the event, drug-related crimes and addiction rates have significantly increased across ECOWAS states, with young people constituting over 70% of those affected. The Parliament’s campaign aims to promote public enlightenment, encourage community-based support systems, and harmonise regional policies on drug control.
The ECOWAS delegation also paid courtesy visits to local rehabilitation centres and held town hall sessions with students and community leaders, distributing information materials and advocating for peer-led education against drug use.
This latest outreach forms part of ECOWAS Parliament’s broader plan to conduct similar campaigns across all member states, reinforcing the bloc’s collective stance on safeguarding the future of West Africa through a drug-free society.
