The urgent need to reform Nigeria’s punitive drug laws, have been emphasized.
Executive Secretary of Nigeria’s National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), Dr. Tony Ojukwu OFR SAN, stated this, cting severe consequences such as overcrowded prisons, human rights violations, and lack of access to healthcare for drug users.
The NHRC chief made this call during the 2025 Nigeria Drug Law and Policy Reform Summit, which brought together key stakeholders from government, civil society, development partners, and advocacy groups to explore ways to reform the country’s drug laws in line with human rights, public health, and social justice.
He advocated the decriminalization of personal drug use, nationwide harm reduction programs, and inclusion of drug treatment in national health insurance coverage.
The summit underscored a collective commitment to reform and served as a platform to deepen collaboration between national institutions, civil society, and international partners.
NIM
