Toure said that effective response to drug abuse and trafficking cannot be achieved from the centre alone.
The country representative commended the NDLEA for its leadership in driving the consultative process, noting that Nigeria’s drug challenge was becoming increasingly complex and expanding in scope.
He said drug control in a country with 36 states, the FCT and 774 local government areas must be driven at the community level for it to be effective.
“State and local governments must take ownership of the response by providing funding, integrating drug control priorities into development plans, and ensuring services reach grassroots communities,” he said.
The UNODC chief described the NDCMP as an opportunity to align responsibilities across all levels of government and improve coordination for real impact at community level.
He stressed that without such commitment, even the strongest national strategy might not deliver the desired impact.
The UN official also emphasised the need to involve young people in the design and implementation of drug control policies, describing them not only as a vulnerable group but also as key partners in prevention and response efforts.
He further called for stronger gender inclusion in drug control strategies, noting that women and girls face unique vulnerabilities but remain central to prevention, treatment and community resilience.
