5 Areas in Lagos Known for Drug Abuse – What You Should Know

Behind the glitz and glamour of Lagos lies a growing shadow — one fueled by drug abuse and addiction.  Eyes Of Lagos reports,

Lagos, Nigeria’s economic powerhouse, is known for its vibrant nightlife, business hubs, and cultural richness. However, like many major cities worldwide, it also battles with drug-related issues, especially in certain communities where youth unemployment, peer pressure, and limited opportunities have contributed to growing substance abuse.

This article highlights five areas in Lagos that have been publicly identified or frequently reported in the media as hotspots for drug abuse, especially among young people. It aims to inform, not stigmatize, and create awareness for safer communities and better intervention.

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1. 🧪 Agege – The ‘Codeine and Loud’ Belt

What’s Known:
Agege, particularly areas like Dopemu and Orile Road, has gained notoriety over the years for widespread drug use, especially among teenagers. Substances like codeine, tramadol, loud (strong cannabis) and skunk are reportedly easy to access.

🎯 Youth drug gangs (“Awawa Boys”) have also been linked to cultism and petty crime in the area.

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2. 🌆 Mushin – The Battle Zone

What’s Known:
Mushin is historically associated with street violence and drug-fueled gang wars. Drugs like cocaine, heroin, and molly circulate underground markets in parts of Olosha and Daleko.

🚔 The NDLEA has frequently conducted raids here due to persistent complaints from residents.

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3. 🚬 Obalende – From Transport Hub to Drug Den

What’s Known:
Obalende’s bus park and bridge underpasses have long been known as open-air drug markets. Hemp, crack, and synthetic opioids are commonly traded late at night.

⚠️ Due to its proximity to high-traffic areas, many young people get introduced to drugs here through social hangouts or gang networks.

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4. 🏙️ Bariga – Hidden Epidemic

What’s Known:
Bariga has one of the highest concentrations of street youth in Lagos, and drug abuse has been cited as a major challenge. Known hotspots include Oworonshoki and Somolu-Bariga axis, where inhalants, codeine, and methamphetamine are commonly abused.

🧠 NGOs have flagged Bariga as a critical zone for youth mental health interventions.

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5. 🕯️ Ikorodu – The New Danger Zone

What’s Known:
Once known for its quiet suburb life, Ikorodu has increasingly come under the spotlight for drug trafficking and ritual-related crimes, often linked to drug use. Areas like Ipakodo, Ita-Oluwo, and Ogijo are becoming flashpoints.

📰 Reports link drug abuse in this axis with rising cult-related killings and cyber fraud (“Yahoo Plus”).

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🚨 The Bigger Picture

According to reports from the NDLEA, Lagos State Government, and various civil society groups, drug abuse is no longer a “hidden” crisis. It is widespread, cutting across class, age, and gender — and it requires urgent community-based solutions.

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🛡️ What Can Be Done?

• Increased awareness and youth mentorship programs

• Community policing and NDLEA collaboration

• Accessible rehab and counseling centers

• Engagement through music, sports, and education

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📢 Final Thoughts from Eyes of Lagos Blog:

Lagos is a city of dreams — but those dreams are being threatened by drugs in many communities. Speaking up, educating one another, and pushing for real solutions is the only way we can protect the next generation.