By Paul Joseph
The Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency, Brigadier General Mohamed Marwa (rtd), has called for a stronger national response against what he described as a growing “toxic pop culture” that glamorises drug abuse among young Nigerians.
Marwa made the remarks during the official commissioning of the agency’s new radio platform, Clean Beat 91.5 FM, in Abuja, an initiative designed to strengthen public awareness and prevention under the NDLEA’s ongoing War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) campaign.
He explained that the station will serve as a strategic communication tool to counter narratives that promote substance abuse, while promoting recovery stories, public education, and verified information on drug prevention.
According to him, the radio station is part of a broader effort to shift the national conversation from punishment alone to prevention, rehabilitation, and awareness-building.
Marwa said the agency’s goal is to challenge cultural influences that normalise drug use among youths, warning that such trends pose serious risks to public health, security, and national productivity.
He stressed that behind every drug abuse statistic is a human story, often involving vulnerable young people, struggling families, and communities affected by addiction.
“We recognise that behind every statistic of drug abuse is a human being,” he was quoted as saying. “A vulnerable teenager seeking escape; a broken family searching for answers; a brilliant mind derailed but capable of redirection.”
He added that Clean Beat 91.5 FM would promote a “vibrant alternative culture” that celebrates sobriety and highlights real-life recovery journeys, while also providing life-saving information to the public.
Marwa warned that failure to address rising acceptance of drug abuse could worsen insecurity and economic challenges in the country, describing substance abuse as a “hydra-headed problem” affecting public health and productivity.
He further emphasized that while enforcement remains essential, education and prevention are more effective in addressing the root causes of drug abuse.
“While enforcement wins battles, education and prevention win wars,” he said, noting that long-term success depends on reducing demand and changing public attitudes.
The NDLEA chairman also credited the support of the Federal Government, regulatory agencies, international partners, and staff of the agency for making the project possible.
He urged young Nigerians to engage with the platform and become advocates for a drug-free society, describing the initiative as a collective national responsibility.
Representatives of international partners, including the United Nations, commended the NDLEA for adopting innovative communication tools such as radio to strengthen public advocacy and complement ongoing drug control efforts in line with Nigeria’s national drug policy framework.
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