The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has warned against the abuse of hard drugs and the indiscriminate mixing of alcoholic beverages, saying the practice poses serious risks to physical and mental health.

Assistant Director, Community Awareness, Directorate of Prevention and Sensitisation of the NDLEA, Peter Njokwu, gave the warning during a sensitisation campaign for traders and residents of Gwagwalada Market in Abuja.

The programme was organised by the Initiative for Care, Advocacy, Rehabilitation and Empowerment (I-CARE) as part of activities marking its 2026 Mental Health Awareness Week, themed: “Action for yourself, for all of us, for someone else.”

During the outreach, officials of both organisations educated traders and residents on the health, social and economic consequences of drug abuse, stressing the need for individuals and communities to stay away from illicit substances.

Njokwu explained that many young people unknowingly endanger their lives by combining different alcoholic drinks and consuming illicit substances, warning that such practices could lead to addiction, organ damage, mental health disorders and, in severe cases, sudden death.

According to him, most alcohol-related emergencies arise from the indiscriminate mixing of spirits, beer, wine and locally brewed drinks, a trend he described as dangerous and avoidable.

He also noted that drug abuse remains a major public health concern, contributing to road accidents, domestic violence, mental health disorders and reduced productivity.

The NDLEA official said substance abuse has become a growing challenge in many communities, affecting not only users but also their families and society at large.

He urged traders and residents of Gwagwalada to remain vigilant and support efforts aimed at identifying and discouraging drug-related activities within their communities.

Njokwu, an Assistant Commander of Narcotics, also advised parents and guardians to pay closer attention to their children and wards, warning that peer pressure, curiosity and lack of proper guidance often push young people into substance abuse.

He emphasised the need for continuous education and awareness campaigns to curb the rising rate of drug abuse across the country.

According to him, prevention remains the most effective strategy in tackling drug abuse, adding that the agency would continue collaborating with organisations, community groups and other stakeholders to promote a drug-free society.

He identified cannabis as the most widely abused illicit substance in the area, while noting that alcohol remains the most commonly abused social drug.

In his remarks, Public Relations Officer of I-CARE, Talubi Olusegun, said the sensitisation campaign was organised to educate members of the public, particularly traders and youths, on the dangers of substance abuse and the importance of prioritising mental health and wellbeing.

He noted that drug abuse poses a major threat to individuals, families and communities, contributing to mental health disorders, crime, violence and loss of productivity.

According to him, the theme of the awareness week underscores the collective responsibility of individuals and society in promoting healthy lifestyles and supporting people struggling with addiction and mental health challenges.

Olusegun urged participants to avoid illicit substances and seek professional help whenever they experience emotional or psychological difficulties. He also called on community leaders, parents and market associations to collaborate in creating awareness and supporting efforts aimed at preventing drug abuse among young people.

He reiterated the group’s commitment to advocacy, rehabilitation and empowerment programmes targeted at vulnerable groups, adding that the organisation would continue partnering with relevant stakeholders to promote mental health awareness and build drug-free communities across the country.