World Drug Day: Dr.Ameh Zion Urges Unified Global Action Against Drug Abuse

FCT, Nigeria — June 26, 2025 | By Genesis Ogiri, Newsway Media

As the world marked the 2025 edition of the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking, also known as World Drug Day, leading Nigerian mental health advocate and public health expert, Dr. Zion Ameh Abba, delivered a resounding call for stronger community-based action and government accountability in addressing the scourge of drug abuse.

Speaking at a community event held in Kobi, a rural community in Nigeria’s Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Dr. Ameh described drug and substance abuse as a growing public health emergency with far-reaching social and economic consequences. He emphasized that beyond its adverse effects on human health, drug abuse erodes productivity, weakens families, fuels crime, and undermines national development.

 “Drug abuse is not only harmful to the individual—it is disruptive to the social fabric of society. It diminishes productivity, impairs mental stability, and burdens our already stretched healthcare systems,” Dr. Ameh stated during an exclusive interview with Newsway Media.

The event, which doubled as the commissioning of the newly reconstructed Primary Health Care Centre (PHC) in Kobi, was facilitated by the MaryCrown Foundation as part of its community health outreach. Dr. Ameh, who served as the keynote speaker, used the occasion to underscore the critical intersection between mental health and drug use, particularly among young people.

Addressing a cross-section of community members, health workers, local leaders, and youth groups gathered for the ceremony, Dr. Ameh issued a heartfelt appeal for a collective, grassroots-led movement against drug and substance abuse.

“It is the responsibility of every individual—parents, educators, religious leaders, the media, policymakers—to advocate against drug abuse. We must champion awareness, especially among our youths who remain most vulnerable to addiction and its consequences,” he said.

Drawing attention to the theme of this year’s World Drug Day—“The Evidence is Clear: Invest in Prevention”—Dr. Ameh stressed the need to shift focus from punitive approaches to preventive strategies, community sensitization, and mental health education.

While acknowledging the efforts of Nigerian authorities, particularly the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), in curbing illicit drug circulation, Dr. Ameh noted that major policy gaps remain unaddressed, particularly in rehabilitation services and mental health integration.

He advocated for the establishment of fully functional rehabilitation centers across all states, integrated with community mental health programs that address the root causes of addiction, including trauma, unemployment, peer pressure, and family dysfunction.

“To break the cycle of addiction, we must invest in recovery—not just enforcement. Building accessible rehabilitation centers and embedding mental health services within primary healthcare are critical to healing our communities,” he asserted.

As the Founder and Executive Director of the Mandate Health Empowerment Initiative (MHEI), Dr. Ameh has spent over a decade spearheading advocacy campaigns, policy dialogues, and mental health outreach programs across Nigeria. Under his leadership, MHEI has become a frontline NGO dedicated to mental health reforms, strategic leadership development, and psychosocial support.

Through its nationwide campaigns and collaborations with stakeholders in health, education, and social development sectors, MHEI continues to amplify the call for the mainstreaming of mental health in national development priorities.

The Kobi event was more than a symbolic commissioning of a rural health facility—it was a clarion call to action. As villagers gathered to witness the unveiling of their revitalized PHC, they also left equipped with new knowledge on how to protect themselves, their families, and future generations from the perils of substance abuse.

“This conversation must not end here. Every school, every market, every family gathering must become a space of awareness. Let us begin to speak openly about mental health, about addiction, and about healing,” Dr. Ameh concluded, drawing applause from the crowd.

Celebrated annually on June 26, the International Day Against Drug Abuse and Illicit Trafficking is a United Nations-recognized observance aimed at strengthening global action and cooperation in achieving a world free of drug abuse. It highlights the need for evidence-based interventions, public awareness, and comprehensive support systems for people struggling with substance use disorders

The Mandate Health Empowerment Initiative (MHEI) is a Nigerian non-governmental organization committed to mental health care reform, advocacy, and psychosocial support. It works to close policy gaps, empower communities through education, and influence sustainable practices in mental health care and drug prevention.

MHEI partners with communities, governments, and civil society to address pressing mental health issues and build a more inclusive and healthy future for all Nigerians.