ABOUT THE SUMMIT
Executive Summary
The North West region of Nigeria stands at a critical crossroads, facing the dual crises of rising drug abuse and widespread insecurity.
This Summit offers an unprecedented platform for Governors, policymakers, civil society, and development partners to co-create a regional solution. Scheduled from June 23rd to 26th, 2026, the program will begin with three days of technical workshops followed by a high-level Governors’ Summit.
Together, these engagements aim to deliver a Unified Regional Framework and actionable State Action Plans that will transform how the region addresses addiction, security, and development challenges.
Background and Rationale
According to the 2018 National Drug Use Survey, drug prevalence in the North West is among the highest nationally: Kano (16%), Zamfara (13.5%), Katsina (12%). Combined with porous borders, poor regulation, and inadequate treatment services, the region faces a multidimensional crisis that fuels crime, youth unemployment, and insecurity.
This Summit serves as a regional call to action to adopt coordinated, evidence-based solutions grounded in prevention, care access, enforcement reform, and human capital investment.
Pre-Summit Workshops (June 23rd to 25th, 2026)
These sessions will convene technical experts, civil society, traditional leaders, and state representatives around four core themes:
Prevention
Focusing on proactive approaches to reduce the risk and spread of drug abuse within communities.
Public awareness strategies and behavior change communication
Standardizing treatment protocols and rehabilitation services
Treatment & Rehabilitation
Addressing the critical need for responsive, accessible, and dignified support systems for individuals affected by substance use.
Access & Enforcement
Bridging the gap between public safety and health by aligning enforcement with human rights principles.
Strengthening law enforcement practices and capacity
Harmonizing state-level drug policies and action plans
Policy & Coordination
Building robust policy frameworks and inter-state cooperation for lasting impact.
Meet Our Speakers

Hon. Malick Fall
U.N. Resident & Humanitarian Coordinator in Nigeria

Mrs Suwaiba Saidu Ahmed
Minister of State, Education

Dr Kabir Adamu
CEO, Beacon Consulting LTD

Rukkaya Bashir El-Rufai
SA to the President on Human Capital Development

Hon. Ayodele Olawande
Hon. Minister of Youth and Sports

Brig. Gen Buba Marwa
Chairman NDLEA

Dr. Wadih Maalouf
Global Program Coordinator, UNODC

Cheikh Toure
Country Representative UNODC
Join us at Northwest Governor Forum Summit 2025 .
26-06 2025 - Kaduna State .
Join government leaders, security experts, development partners, and changemakers for a landmark summit focused on tackling drug abuse, strengthening security, and advancing sustainable development in Northwest Nigeria. Your voice and presence matter in shaping the region’s future.