National Drug Law Enforcement Agency Chairman Buba Marwa has urged Nigerian youths to reject harmful drug use and use their influence to promote healthier communities.
The message was delivered at the opening of the 2026 Rotary Youth Leadership Academy in Abuja, which brought together more than 600 young Nigerians.
Marwa said national development depended heavily on the character, competence and choices of young people.
He described leadership as responsibility, influence and service rather than simply holding a position.
The NDLEA chairman warned that drug abuse and trafficking affected not only individuals but also families, schools, public health, security and economic productivity.
He said enforcement alone could not solve the drug problem and called for stronger prevention, education, family support and community engagement.
Marwa encouraged participants to become ambassadors for healthy choices among their peers.
He said young people could use peer influence to promote education, sports, creativity, entrepreneurship and responsible citizenship rather than destructive behaviour.
The NDLEA chief also warned against stigmatising people struggling with substance use and encouraged appropriate treatment and support.
He identified integrity, service and resilience as important qualities for young leaders.
Youth Development Minister Ayodele Olawande also urged participants to combine education with practical skills, technology and problem solving ability.
Rotary organisers said the academy would expose participants to leadership, digital innovation, entrepreneurship, civic responsibility, financial intelligence and vocational development.
