Nigeria Country Profile

Drug policy

The National Drug Control Master Plan (2021- 2025) outlines Nigeria’s approach to dealing with a range of drug- related issues including illicit drug supply, drug demand reduction and control of licit substances.
The Government of Nigeria has pursued a law enforcement approach to respond to the challenges of drug trafficking, production and use.
There is a government unit responsible for prevention and treatment of alcohol and drug use disorders.
The Nigeria Government works closely with specialist national agencies to ensure the effectiveness of policies implemented to control drug use.
The strategy is based on a four pillar model and its overall aims are to: prioritise collaboration and consultation; address the differences between law enforcement and drug demand reduction; work alongside leading agencies to ensure effective management and implementation of the strategy; and promote monitoring and evaluation of the effectiveness of the strategy.

The aim of treatment is total abstinence and there is no evidence of drug substitution treatment.
Treatment in Nigeria primarily takes place in psychiatric hospitals though it is also offered in some private hospitals, in centres run by NGOs and by traditional healers.
Stigma and unavailability of treatment services are significant barriers in access to treatment for people with drug or substance use disorder
Detoxification is offered as part of inpatient and outpatient treatment service
Treatment often involves psychotherapy, counselling, educational, occupational and social rehabilitation and reconnection.
Family members are encouraged to participate in the process of treatment.
Screening and brief treatment is offered in primary care.

The Drug Use in Nigeria Survey 2018 highlighted gaps in meeting the treatment and care needs for people with drug use disorders.
Recovery is recognised as a subset of Treatment Services.
The majority of rehabilitation centres in Nigeria are run by religious groups, and are widely accepted by the medical community.
The NDCMP 2021-2025 makes provision for the review of existing guidelines and policies to reflect a unified treatment strategy that includes Recovery management.

Primary prevention activities are aimed at reducing the likelihood of young people initiating drug use and schools deliver preventative education activities.
Behaviour change programmes are designed for youth, families and communities, with the hope that by providing information people will be more able to make informed decisions.
Other prevention activity target groups include market women, road transport workers and artisans.
Drug abuse prevention enlightenment programmes are delivered by print, electronic media and through lectures in schools, workplaces, youth camps and clinics.
HIV services for people who inject drugs are limited.
There are no needle exchange programmes or supervised injection facilities.