ENUGU — Governor Peter Mbah of Enugu State has issued a stark warning regarding the proliferation of substance abuse in Nigeria, characterizing it not merely as a public health concern, but as a critical threat to the nation’s security, economic stability, and social fabric.

The Governor made these remarks on Tuesday, June 9, 2026, during a stakeholders’ conference held in Enugu. The event, organized by the MTN Foundation, was focused on addressing the dangers of illicit drug use. While the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking is officially observed annually on June 26, local stakeholders convened this week to amplify the urgent need for collaborative intervention.

A "Whole-of-Society" Approach

Representing the Governor, the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, emphasized that the complexity of the drug crisis requires a coordinated effort beyond government action alone.

"Substance abuse is more than a health issue. It is a development issue, a security issue, an educational issue, and a social issue," Mbah noted in his keynote address. He called for a comprehensive strategy involving families, schools, religious leaders, security agencies, and the private sector to protect the youth from destructive influences.

Prioritizing Youth and Prevention

Governor Mbah highlighted the Enugu State administration's proactive measures to mitigate these risks by focusing on human capital development:

  • Smart Green Schools: The ongoing construction of 267 schools across the state is designed to equip students with the skills and values necessary to thrive, serving as a primary defense against the vulnerability that often leads to substance abuse.

  • Modern Healthcare Access: The establishment of Type-2 primary healthcare facilities across the state is aimed at ensuring better access to mental health and psychosocial support services.

Shifting the Narrative on Addiction

A key component of the Governor’s message was the need to combat the stigma surrounding addiction. He urged society to move away from condemnation and instead view the struggle with substance abuse through the lens of rehabilitation and reintegration.

"As a society, we must increasingly view addiction through the lens of public health and rehabilitation rather than condemnation," Mbah stated. "Many affected individuals require support, treatment, counselling, and reintegration."

MTN Foundation’s Commitment

The conference also featured insights from the Executive Director of the MTN Foundation, Mrs. Odunayo Sanya. She highlighted the organization’s Anti-Substance Abuse Programme, launched in 2019, which focuses on reducing first-time drug use among young Nigerians. The Foundation announced plans to engage over 30,000 additional students this year through targeted awareness campaigns and educational interventions, aiming to prevent the "lost potential" that often results from drug dependency.