The Lagos State Government has raised concern over the escalating rate of substance abuse in the state and across Nigeria, urging prompt and coordinated efforts to address the threat.
Governor Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu made this appeal on the 9th of July, 2025, during the Anti-Substance Abuse Programme (ASAP) Advocacy Stakeholders Conference, organised by MTN Nigeria at its headquarters in Falomo, Lagos.
Represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Barrister Bimbola Salu-Hundeyin, the governor described substance abuse as a “malignant cancer” that is gradually destroying the foundations of society and putting the future of the nation in danger.
“It is disheartening to witness the spread of drug abuse among our youth, with its grip extending even to our innocent children,” Salu-Hundeyin said.
She went on to add, “Our young people are the lifeblood of our future. But how can a nation thrive when its strength is undermined by the devastating effects of addiction?”
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Salu-Hundeyin explained that the state has launched a range of responses to the crisis.
These include a dedicated mental health institute, a 24-hour mental health support helpline, and continued collaboration with regulatory agencies to tighten monitoring and enforcement.
She said the state government is taking a proactive approach by focusing on prevention. Through the Lagos State Well-Being Programme, school counseling services have been scaled up, and early intervention resources have been introduced in communities, schools, and religious centres to strengthen awareness and reduce the impact of addiction.
Salu-Hundeyin also applauded MTN Nigeria’s contribution to the cause through the ASAP initiative.
She acknowledged the programme’s support for youth education, teacher training, and nationwide advocacy, describing it as a model example of how the private sector can help improve society.