The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has called on Nigerians battling drug dependence to take advantage of its 24-hour counselling and referral service, assuring them that professional help is readily available.
Speaking in Abuja on Monday during activities marking the 2026 United Nations International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, NDLEA Secretary, Shadrach Haruna, said the agency remains committed to supporting individuals affected by substance abuse through counselling, treatment and rehabilitation services.
Haruna encouraged not only individuals struggling with addiction but also their families and friends to seek assistance, stressing that recovery is achievable with proper care and intervention.
According to him, the agency’s dedicated helpline, 0800-1020-3040, popularly known as the 247-Network, was established to provide immediate access to professional support for people dealing with drug use disorders and their loved ones.
He explained that callers can receive prompt assistance in multiple languages, including English, Pidgin, Hausa, Yoruba and Igbo, ensuring that language barriers do not prevent people from accessing help.
The NDLEA secretary noted that trained social psychologists are available around the clock to offer counselling and direct callers to treatment and rehabilitation centres nearest to them.
Haruna emphasized that treatment and rehabilitation remain key components of the agency’s comprehensive drug-control strategy, alongside law enforcement, prevention and public awareness campaigns.
He further revealed that the NDLEA has adopted innovative measures in its fight against drug abuse and illicit trafficking, including strategic partnerships with faith-based organisations.
According to him, churches and other religious institutions play a vital role in addressing drug abuse due to their influence within families and communities. Beyond reporting drug-related activities, these organisations contribute through counselling, moral guidance and family-centred interventions.
Haruna described families as the foundation of social development, adding that religious institutions provide effective platforms for spreading anti-drug messages and promoting healthy lifestyles.
He said the agency is leveraging the reach of faith-based organisations to expand its prevention campaigns and connect with communities at the grassroots level.
The NDLEA official called on Nigerians, religious leaders, families and community stakeholders to support efforts aimed at reducing drug abuse and helping affected individuals recover. He also reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to expanding access to treatment services and strengthening partnerships in the ongoing fight against drug abuse and illicit trafficking.
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