When we use that same powerful voice to warn against the dangers of drug abuse and human trafficking, we are not just entertaining; we are educating and protecting
By Moses Okorie
The Chairman of the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA), retired Brig.-Gen. Buba Marwa, has called for the use of Afrobeats as a tool to combat drug abuse, human trafficking and other social vices among young people.
Marwa made the call on Saturday at the maiden Afrobeats Cultural Carnival organised by the Gateway to Better Life Foundation in Asaba, Delta State. He was represented at the event by the Delta State Commander of the NDLEA, Halilu Hamidu.
Describing the carnival as an innovative platform that blends entertainment, African culture and public enlightenment, Marwa said such initiatives could educate youths, discourage substance abuse and promote responsible citizenship.
He warned that drug abuse continues to devastate families, schools and communities, stressing that addressing the menace requires more than law enforcement.
According to him, effective responses must combine enforcement with education, rehabilitation, compassion and cultural engagement.
Marwa noted that Afrobeats, which enjoys global appeal among young people, has the capacity to influence positive behaviour and serve as a powerful medium for anti-drug advocacy.
“Afrobeats is more than music. It is the heartbeat of a generation. When we use that same powerful voice to warn against the dangers of drug abuse and human trafficking, we are not just entertaining; we are educating and protecting,” he said.
The NDLEA chairman commended the organisers for incorporating discussions on drug trafficking, sex trafficking, culture and faith into the carnival, describing them as practical interventions capable of protecting vulnerable youths from criminal exploitation.
He urged young Nigerians to reject drugs and criminal activities, encouraging those struggling with substance abuse to seek professional help.
Marwa assured that treatment, counselling, rehabilitation and community support remain available through evidence-based interventions without discrimination or stigma.
He also reaffirmed the agency’s commitment under its War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) campaign to strengthen partnerships with communities, faith-based organisations and stakeholders in the creative industry to tackle substance abuse.
The NDLEA boss further commended the Gateway to Better Life Foundation, DAST Foundation USA, Rainbow Star Films and Entertainment USA, and the Davido International Supporters Group for supporting anti-drug campaigns and youth development.
Speaking at the event, Chairman of the occasion and General Overseer of Jesus Mission Church, Archbishop Gimbright Adaigho, described the carnival as a movement that goes beyond entertainment.
According to him, the initiative is designed to promote responsible leadership, creativity, national unity and the preservation of Africa’s cultural heritage.
Adaigho urged participants to celebrate life, dignity, freedom and unity while ensuring that cultural expressions inspire hope, peace, responsibility and national development.
He added that music and cultural festivals should serve as platforms for confronting drug abuse, addiction, trafficking and exploitation while promoting moral values and youth empowerment across Africa.
The cleric officially declared the carnival open and prayed for God’s blessings upon Nigeria, Africa and the younger generation.
Also speaking, the convener of the carnival, Amb. Chukwudi Eke, called on governments, parents, religious leaders and community stakeholders to work together to curb the growing menace of drug abuse before more young people become victims.
Eke distinguished between drug abuse, drug addiction and substance use disorder, noting that although they differ, all three continue to destroy lives and families in Nigeria and beyond.
He expressed concern over the increasing rate of substance abuse among schoolchildren, including pupils in primary schools, and urged parents, teachers and community leaders to intervene early.
Sharing his personal testimony, Eke recounted overcoming substance abuse after what he described as a spiritual healing experience in 1981, saying it transformed his life and inspired his humanitarian work.
He disclosed that the carnival’s medical outreach and welfare programmes were personally funded by him and his wife without government or corporate sponsorship.
Eke also announced the unveiling of a commemorative book on music star Davido, alongside new musical projects and a feature film aimed at promoting positive African values to global audiences.
He thanked traditional rulers, educational institutions, media organisations, volunteers and more than 30 partner organisations for supporting the carnival and advancing campaigns against drug abuse.
According to him, the initiative will continue to promote cultural values, youth empowerment, drug abuse prevention and national development through sustained collaboration among stakeholders.