Marwa Cautions Students on Dangerous Consequences of Drug Abuse.

The Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), Mohamed Buba Marwa, has cautioned Nigerian youths—particularly those in tertiary institutions—against the dangers of drug abuse, warning that its temporary pleasure comes with long-term consequences that can destroy their future.

The warning was delivered during a public lecture at the 29th and 30th combined convocation ceremony of the University of Abuja. The lecture, titled “High Today, Lost Tomorrow: The Real Cost of Drug Abuse on Campus,” highlighted the growing concern over substance abuse among students.

In a statement issued by Femi Babafemi, Director of Media and Advocacy at NDLEA Headquarters in Abuja, Marwa noted that drug abuse has evolved from a street-level issue into a serious challenge within academic environments.

He explained that the drug landscape has shifted beyond traditional substances such as cannabis to include synthetic opioids and designer drugs like “Colorado,” “Loud,” and methamphetamine. He also raised alarm over the increasing use of social media platforms for drug distribution and the involvement of students in trafficking activities.

Marwa warned that drug-related offences carry lifelong consequences, stressing that a criminal record can permanently hinder career prospects in professions such as law, medicine, and engineering.

“A criminal record for drug offences is a life sentence on your career before it even begins,” he said.

The NDLEA boss further explained that substance abuse negatively affects brain function, impairing memory and critical thinking, and is often linked to cultism and campus violence. He added that arrests and convictions effectively end professional aspirations due to the agency’s zero-tolerance policy.

Citing data from the 2018 National Drug Use and Health Survey, Marwa revealed that substance abuse is most prevalent among Nigerians aged 25 to 39, with many individuals introduced to drugs as early as 19 years old. He expressed concern that children under 15—and even as young as 10—are now experimenting with illicit substances.

According to NDLEA statistics, over 77,000 drug offenders were arrested in the past five years, with more than 60 percent being youths. Similarly, the majority of over 48,000 individuals treated in NDLEA facilities during the same period were young people.

Addressing graduating students, Marwa urged them to remain focused and avoid negative peer influence as they transition into the next phase of life.

“There is no room for a clouded mind in today’s fast-paced, technology-driven world,” he said, advising students to choose their associations carefully and resist peer pressure.

He also called on stakeholders to support government efforts in tackling drug abuse, noting that its effects extend beyond individuals to families, institutions, and the broader society.

Marwa stressed that a nation cannot achieve sustainable development if its youth—its most valuable resource—are undermined by substance abuse.