The National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has called on Nigerians struggling with drug dependence to seek professional assistance through its 24-hour counselling and referral service, assuring that support is available at all times for individuals and families affected by substance abuse, Peak Newspaper reports.
The Secretary of the agency, Shadrach Haruna, made the appeal in an interview in Abuja on Monday as part of activities marking the 2026 United Nations International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking.
He said the agency’s helpline, 0800-1020-3040, popularly known as the 247-Network, was established to provide immediate access to counselling and treatment support for people battling drug use disorders.
Haruna explained that callers would receive instant responses in their preferred language, including Pidgin English, Hausa, Yoruba, Igbo and formal English. According to him, trained social psychologists are available round the clock to offer counselling and direct individuals to the nearest treatment and rehabilitation centres.
He stressed that recovery from addiction is possible with the right intervention and urged families and friends of affected persons to seek help without delay.
The NDLEA secretary also highlighted the agency’s collaboration with faith-based organisations as part of innovative strategies to combat drug abuse and illicit trafficking.
He noted that religious institutions play a critical role in prevention, counselling and family-focused interventions due to their influence within communities.
Haruna reaffirmed the agency’s commitment to expanding treatment and rehabilitation services while strengthening partnerships with religious groups, families and community stakeholders to reduce drug demand and support recovery efforts nationwide.
