World drug problem worsens with rising addiction, new challenges

The world grapples with a worsening drug problem, marked by rising addiction rates and evolving trafficking networks. Globally, approximately 316 million people, or 6% of the population aged 15-64, use illicit drugs. Of these, an estimated 64 million suffer from clinical addiction, a figure that has climbed significantly in the last decade.

Cannabis remains the most prevalent illicit substance, but the market for synthetic drugs like methamphetamine and pharmaceutical opioids is expanding rapidly, particularly in West and Central Africa, North America, and Southeast Asia. Global cocaine production has also reached a record high. These substances claim hundreds of thousands of lives annually, with opioids being the primary cause of fatal overdoses.

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The World Drug Problem: Persisting Issues, New Challenges, Innovative Responses

Nigeria is disproportionately affected by this crisis. In January 2025, an estimated 14.3 million Nigerians, or 14.4% of the population aged 15-64, are involved in drug abuse, nearly three times the global average. The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency reports that over 10 million Nigerians use cannabis, and it seized drugs worth N134.2 billion in 2024, including a significant methamphetamine haul.

A disturbing trend in Nigeria is the increasing involvement of women in substance abuse, now accounting for one in four drug users. Poverty, unemployment, and a lack of economic opportunities are identified as key drivers pushing many Nigerians toward drug use as an escape. Regional variations exist, with Lagos State seeing high cannabis addiction rates and Kano State reporting significant opioid use.

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an opportunity to reflect on the continued and evolving impact of the world drug problem in all its dimensions and exchange views on priority concerns and innovative, evidence-based responses.