By Muhammad Mamman
The House of Representatives has inaugurated an ad hoc committee to investigate the rising prevalence, weak regulation, and devastating impact of drug abuse, tobacco use, alcohol consumption and related substances on Nigeria’s economy and public health.
The committee’s establishment follows growing concern among lawmakers, public health experts and civil society groups over the alarming rate of substance abuse across the country — particularly among young people — and its wider implications for productivity, security and national wellbeing.
Speaking at the inauguration in Abuja, the Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, said the investigation reflects the legislature’s commitment to addressing a mounting social and economic crisis that continues to undermine national development.
“The abuse of drugs and other harmful substances has become a public health emergency and an economic burden. We must understand the scale of the problem, the failures in regulation, and what legislative and policy actions are required to reverse this trend,” the Speaker stated.
The committee has been tasked with assessing the effectiveness of existing laws, identifying gaps in regulation, and recommending strategies to strengthen oversight of the production, sale and consumption of controlled substances. It will also evaluate the roles of relevant agencies, including the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC), and the Federal Ministry of Health.
Chairman of the newly formed committee, Hon. [Name Placeholder], pledged to conduct a thorough and transparent inquiry, consulting stakeholders from health, education, security, and community organisations to ensure a comprehensive report.
“We will engage communities, experts, and government institutions to uncover the root causes of the crisis and propose sustainable solutions. This is not just a health issue — it’s a national security and economic challenge,” he said.
Public health analysts have long warned that substance abuse contributes to rising crime rates, mental health disorders, and declining workforce productivity, while also placing immense strain on Nigeria’s healthcare system.
The committee is expected to submit its findings and recommendations to the House within a stipulated timeframe, paving the way for possible legislative reforms and stronger enforcement measures to combat substance abuse nationwide.
